Ekonomické rozhľady/Economic Review 3/2026

THE IMPACT OF MACROECONOMIC INDICATORS ON MEASURING REGIONAL DISPARITIES: A BEYOUND-GDP APPROACH

BENJAMÍN HOROSZ

https://doi.org/10.53465/ER.2644-7185.2026.3.192-237

 

Abstract: This paper compares the standard approach to regional classification into development groups with categorisation based on beyond-GDP indicators. The objective is to identify beyond-GDP indicators focused on well-being, inclusion, and sustainability that could improve the classification of European NUTS 2 regions for the allocation of EU cohesion policy resources. We approach this issue using cluster analysis, while considering the limitations of the composition and methodology of the indicators examined. Based on the results of external cluster validation, we identify indicators beyond GDP that have the potential to improve the categorisation of regions by level of development compared to the methodology currently applied within EU cohesion policy. 

Keywords: regional disparities, beyond GDP, cohesion policy, cluster analysis

JEL Classification: R11, R15, R58

Fulltext: PDF

Online publication date: 30 September 2026

 

To cite this article (APA style):

Horosz, B. (2026). Measuring regional disparities: A beyond-GDP approach. Economic Review, 55(3), 192 - 237. https://doi.org/10.53465/ER.2644-7185.2026.3.192-237

 

Publisher: Bratislava University of Economics and Business

ISSN 2644-7185 (online)

 

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.