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Convergence of European Regions: A Reappraisal

Author

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  • Azomahou, Theophile T.

    (UNU-MERIT, and Maastricht University)

  • El Ouardighi, Jalal

    (BETA, Universite de Strasbourg)

  • Nguyen-Van, Phu

    (BETA, CNRS and Universite de Strasbourg)

  • Kim Cuong Pham, Thi

    (BETA, Universite de Strasbourg)

Abstract

We provide a reappraisal of income convergence across European regions over the period 1990-2005 by using a semiparametric partially linear model to approximate the relationship between the average growth rate of GDP per capita and the initial GDP per capita. Estimation results point out both country heterogeneity and non-linearity in the convergence process. Only low income regions converge while there is little evidence of convergence for higher income regions.

Suggested Citation

  • Azomahou, Theophile T. & El Ouardighi, Jalal & Nguyen-Van, Phu & Kim Cuong Pham, Thi, 2010. "Convergence of European Regions: A Reappraisal," MERIT Working Papers 2010-029, United Nations University - Maastricht Economic and Social Research Institute on Innovation and Technology (MERIT).
    • Handle: RePEc:unm:unumer:2010029
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    Cited by:

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Convergence; Heterogeneity; Non-linearity; Kernel estimator; European regions;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C14 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods and Methodology: General - - - Semiparametric and Nonparametric Methods: General
    • O40 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity - - - General
    • O52 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies - - - Europe

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