This chapter analyses the dynamics of regional disparities in the member states that joined the European Union in or after 2004, excluding Cyprus and Malta (EU11). The analysis shows that while differences between countries have been shrinking, regional disparities in GDP per capita and...

All countries have had defining moments which have brought about important transformations in their economies and societies. These turning points, which may be triggered by wars, new technologies and markets, or crises, require new policies and reforms to help countries adapt to the fresh...

This chapter analyzes the sources of Poland's unprecedented economic performance after 1989, when Poland became Europe's and the world's growth champion. I argue that this growth miracle was driven by five fundamental factors, including Poland’s accession to the European Union. All five...