http://hdl.handle.net/10174/14339 2026-07-31T08:58:35Z 2026-07-31T08:58:35Z Borrega, Alexandre Rego, Conceição Rocha de Sousa, Miguel http://hdl.handle.net/10174/42414 2026-07-28T11:03:20Z 2026-06-30T23:00:00Z

Title: Unpacking regional development in the EU: The interplay of cohesion, institutions, and sustainability Authors: Borrega, Alexandre; Rego, Conceição; Rocha de Sousa, Miguel Abstract: This paper examines regional development in the European Union from a multidimensional and dynamic perspective, addressing the limited understanding of how economic, social, institutional, and environmental dimensions interact over time. While existing research often treats these dimensions separately or relies on static indicators, less attention has been paid to their temporal interdependencies and adjustment dynamics. Using a panel vector autoregressive model with common correlated effects (PVAR-CCE) applied to 233 NUTS-2 regions over the period 2000–2022, the analysis identifies the dynamic interactions linking these dimensions while accounting for cross-sectional dependence and regional heterogeneity. The results provide evidence of a structured system of interdependencies governing regional development. They reveal a dual adjustment structure characterised by a fast-moving economic–social cycle linking employment, income, and youth exclusion, and a slower structural dynamic driven by institutional quality, human capital, and environmental conditions. These dynamics vary across regions and income levels, highlighting persistent structural constraints in lagging regions and more integrated development trajectories in advanced regions. Environmental sustainability emerges as a constitutive component of regional development rather than a peripheral outcome, extending place-based approaches beyond income-based frameworks. Overall, the findings contribute to a more integrated understanding of regional development and provide an empirical basis for assessing the feasibility of EU policy objectives related to cohesion, sustainability, and balanced territorial development.

2026-06-30T23:00:00Z Viparelli, Irene http://hdl.handle.net/10174/40475 2026-01-16T00:16:03Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Umanismo o dittatura. Riflessioni sulla critica althusseriana all’eurocomunismo/Humanisme ou dictature. Réflexions sur la critique althussérienne de l’eurocommunisme Authors: Viparelli, Irene Abstract: La réflexion d'Althusser sur l'eurocommunisme déplace la question de l'antihumanisme du plan épistémologique au plan juridique et politique. Le concept d'humanisme, fondement de l'idéologie juridique, se présente comme « symétrique » par rapport au concept marxien de dictature : deux modes opposés et inconciliables de penser la dimension « extra-juridique » constitutive du droit. L'abandon du concept de dictature du prolétariat par les partis communistes européens entraîne, par conséquent, l'occupation complète de cet espace extra-juridique par l'idéologie juridique humaniste et la dissolution définitive de la lutte des classes. La possibilité d'une théorie révolutionnaire ayant disparu, le domaine des droits de l'homme reste le seul terrain où les exigences démocratiques des masses peuvent encore s'exprimer, dans un mouvement régressif qui efface définitivement l'horizon communiste des luttes « pour l'inégalité ».

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z Santos, Filipe Duarte O´Riordan, Timothy Rocha de Sousa, Miguel Pedersen, Jiesper Strandsbjerg Tristan http://hdl.handle.net/10174/39400 2025-10-07T10:56:56Z 2025-06-20T23:00:00Z

Title: The urgency of the Lancet Planetary Health–Earth Commission’s report and IPBES transformations versus the ongoing Z transformation: the need to soften the human sustainability boundaries Authors: Santos, Filipe Duarte; O´Riordan, Timothy; Rocha de Sousa, Miguel; Pedersen, Jiesper Strandsbjerg Tristan Editors: Takeuchi, Kazuhiko; Saito, Osamu Abstract: The Lancet Planetary Health–Earth Commission’s report proposes the translation of safe and just Earth-system boundaries across scales, transitions and transformations as being necessary to create a durable pathway to sustainability. Here we address the willingness and engagement of individual people to understand, feel the value, and implement the totality of its recommended transformations. We adopt an approach based on inner dimensions of sustainability. This depends on seven human critical determinants that we believe can act as human sustainability boundaries (HSB), but can be suitably softened. We conclude that the required softening of HSBs is unlikely to be successful without phasing down the current counter-sustainability Z transformation. This is an heir of the Neolithic and Industrial Revolutions, but has acquired its own powerful identity, and is apparently unable to deliver sustainability.

2025-06-20T23:00:00Z Borrega, Alexandre Peixe Rego, Maria da Conceição Rocha de SOusa, Miguel http://hdl.handle.net/10174/38634 2025-06-17T09:31:36Z 2025-05-31T23:00:00Z

Title: Multidimensional Regional Development in EU: A Systematic Review Authors: Borrega, Alexandre; Peixe Rego, Maria da Conceição; Rocha de SOusa, Miguel Abstract: Regional disparities within the EU remain a persistent challenge, demanding comprehensive research. Enhancing cohesion and convergence while promoting sustainability between and within its regions is crucial to addressing these disparities. This study conducts a systematic literature review on regional development in the EU, identifying key determinants and potential sources of these disparities through a multidimensional lens.Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses methodology, our database considers 92 papers related to regional development in the EU. Our analysis shows that most studies predominantly focus on economic factors like employment and GDP, and there is an emerging recognition of the necessity to incorporate social and environmental aspects into regional development studies. This study maps the current state of literature and identifies gaps, particularly the need for more multidimensional and holistic approaches on regional development. These findings underscore the importance of a comprehensive approach in future research and policymaking are crucial for addressing regional disparities and promoting sustainable development across the EU regions.

2025-05-31T23:00:00Z