Examining the Territorial Differences in the Visegrad Countries, with Special Reference to the Region Type Model

Abstract

The aim of the study is to examine the NUTS3 level areas of the Visegrad countries using the region type model. By applying the region model, the regions of the Visegrad countries that are performing exceptionally well and have a positive impact on neighbouring regions can be highlighted. The region-type model is often found in the literature but is not widely used. Using the region type model, regions are grouped according to two dimensions (GDP per capita and population density). An important factor in defining the research period was to reduce the negative impact of the 2008 crisis. Thus, the research period is 2014 to 2019, where can be described as the "last year of peace". The region type study with the values of the capitals was analysed. The results show Prague as a knowledge hub region and Budapest and Warsaw as cosmopolitan regions for all the periods studied. The region type classification of the Czech Republic can be considered homogeneous in 2014, but the regions return to their original equilibrium status in 2019 for the Visegrad region. The results show that the region type analysis and the convergence studies can be put in parallel.