In person icon Territorial Inequalities and Political Dynamics: The Role of Public Goods, Economic Decline, and Decentralization

Abstract

This panel explores territorial inequalities in multi-level systems. It examines how disparities in public goods provision, economic deprivation, and decentralization influence political behavior, electoral outcomes, and governance preferences. Uneven distribution of public services and resources often fuels political discontent, with voters in neglected areas expressing frustration through support for populist or anti-establishment parties. This dynamic extends beyond economically disadvantaged regions, as wealthier areas facing economic decline can also experience a rise in political polarization and support for disruptive political movements. Additionally, the panel explores the role of subjective perceptions of economic conditions, and how these perceptions, influenced by local and national factors, shape political attitudes. Finally, the relationship between decentralization and territorial inequality is considered, with a focus on how varying policy frameworks across regions affect social and economic disparities. Together, these contributions provide a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of territorial inequalities and their implications for political behavior, social cohesion, and governance. They offer insights into how perceptions of inequality, territorial grievances, and uneven policy provision influence the political landscape, with significant consequences for democratic legitimacy and regional stability.

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