Regional Productivity Patterns in Europe : An Alternative Approach

This article aims to examine the differences in the behaviour of productivity across the European regions. First, we give an overview of regional convergence of productivity in the European Union. Significant regional differences emerge from the detailed analysis of the evolution of productivity that follows. We note that those differences can even be observed in relatively homogeneous regions (peripheral, central, old industrialised, etc.). A new methodological approach is introduced with the aim of exploring in greater depth this diversity, especially in the evolution of labour productivity. A total of 97 regions from the European Union have been selected in order to verify some specific differences in productivity, employment and GVA growth rates. Despite the global trend towards convergence in productivity, this article reveals that significant regional differences persist. Finally, a regional typology is presented