Work

A non-compensatory multidimensional framework for regional attractiveness and peripherality

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This paper proposes a new way for assessing regional attractiveness using a multidimensional framework, including distance from development poles. It applies the Stochastic Multicriteria Acceptability Analysis (SMAA)- Preference Ranking Organisation METhod for Enrichment of Evaluations (PROMETHEE) approach, which, departing from common practice, avoids data normalisation, compensatory trade-offs and arbitrary weight assignments. PROMETHEE handles data aggregation without normalisation or compensation, while SMAA eliminates subjective weights. Applied to 238 EU NUTS 2 regions, with a focus on islands as peculiar peripheral regions, it emerges that distance plays a limited role in regional development, as socio-economic factors largely capture its effects. This approach offers insights to enhance policy design regarding peripheral areas.

Source: Spatial Economic Analysis

DOI: 10.1080/17421772.2026.2704856

Authors: Salvatore Corrente, Benedetto Torrisi, Gianpiero Torrisi

Institution: University of Catania

Language: English

Topic: Regional Development and Policy

Subfield: Political Science and International Relations

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Funders: European Commission, NextGenerationEU

Awards: G1717723436, G3392101, G3529923954, G8060328387