Abstract

This study examines the economic convergence process among European regions in 2000-09, in response to the increased competition created by the introduction of euro, and by globalisation. Drawing on theoretical literature relating to economic growth and development economics, it contributes to this field of research through discussing how some European regions are in the Middle-Income Trap, i.e. they are stuck in their growth process. It reveals how the EU Cohesion policy, which is effective in some contexts, is very often far from promoting structural changes leading to stronger growth processes.