Regional Economic Convergence and Spatial Inequality in Developing Countries: A Systematic Review
Keywords:
Regional Economic, Regional Economic Convergence, Spatial Inequality, Developing Countries, SLRAbstract
This study aims to analyze regional economic convergence and spatial inequality in developing countries through the Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach based on the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. The literature search was designed using Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for publication for the period 2015–2026. The results of the synthesis show that regional economic convergence is uneven and does not always result in equitable development. Various studies identify convergence groups with different growth trajectories, which are influenced by industrialization, physical capital, productivity, human capital, infrastructure, institutions, and spatial relationships. Differences in indicators and analysis methods also affect the results of the study. Therefore, convergence analysis needs to integrate beta, sigma, group convergence, and spatial analysis approaches. Regional development policies need to be adjusted to regional characteristics to reduce inequality in a sustainable manner.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Caesar Muslim, Ernawati, Wali Aya Rumbia, Zainuddin Saenong, Ikar Muadsim (Author)
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