Seeking Economic Balance: Spatial Analysis of the Interaction Between Smart Specialisation and Diversification in Romanian Mountain Areas

Authors

  • Alexandru-Sabin NICULA “Costin C. Kirițescu” National Institute for Economic Research / School of Advanced Studies of the Romanian Academy, Doctoral School of Economic Sciences, 13 Septembrie Avenue, 13, Sector 5, 050711, Romanian Academy House, Bucharest, Romania, Centre for Research on Settlements and Urbanism, Faculty of Geography, Babeș-Bolyai University, Clinicilor St. 5-7, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania. e-mail: sabin.nicula@ince.ro;  https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9772-8588
  • Veronica ȚARAN-BACIU GEORGESCU Doctoral School of Economics II, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Piața Romană 8, 010375, Bucharest, Romania, e-mail tbaciuveronica@yahoo.com
  • Emanuela-Adina NICULA Mountain Economy Center / “Costin C. Kirițescu” National Institute for Economic Research, Romanian Academy, Petreni St., 49, 725700, Vatra Dornei, Romania, e-mail emanuela.nicula@ce-mont.ro
  • Matei DOMNIȚA Mountain Economy Center / “Costin C. Kirițescu” National Institute for Economic Research, Romanian Academy, Petreni St., 49, 725700, Vatra Dornei, Romania
  • Bogdan-Nicolae PĂCURAR Centre for Research on Settlements and Urbanism, Faculty of Geography, Babeș-Bolyai University, Clinicilor St. 5-7, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania, e-mail pacurarbogdan@ymail.com

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24193/subbgeogr.2023.2.02

Keywords:

smart specialisation, diversification, regional development, economic growth, mountain areas

Abstract

This research article delves into the intricate relationship between smart specialisation and economic diversification within the unique context of Romanian mountain regions. As regions characterized by their geographical isolation and distinctive socioeconomic challenges, mountain areas in Romania stand as vital territories where balanced economic development is crucial. In this study, we employ a comprehensive spatial analysis to explore how the European Union’s concept of "smart specialisation" and the imperative for diversification intersect within these mountainous areas. The investigation combines both qualitative and quantitative methods, utilizing spatial data and GIS techniques. Findings reveal the intricate interplay between smart specialisation and diversification efforts, highlighting the necessity for adaptable policies that respond to the unique challenges and opportunities present in Romanian mountain areas. The study also offers recommendations for policymakers, emphasizing the importance of custom-tailored approaches that consider the geographic, social, and economic idiosyncrasies of these regions. Ultimately, this research article contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between regional development strategies and the specific needs of mountainous territories. By shedding light on the practical implications of smart specialisation and diversification in Romanian mountain areas, it offers valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners working towards sustainable and balanced economic growth in similar regions worldwide.

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STUDIA UBB GEOGRAPHIA, Volume 68 (LXVIII), No. 2, December 2023

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Published

2023-12-30

How to Cite

NICULA, A.-S., ȚARAN-BACIU GEORGESCU, V., NICULA, E.-A., DOMNIȚA, M., & PĂCURAR, B.-N. (2023). Seeking Economic Balance: Spatial Analysis of the Interaction Between Smart Specialisation and Diversification in Romanian Mountain Areas. Studia Universitatis Babeș-Bolyai Geographia, 68(2), 37–57. https://doi.org/10.24193/subbgeogr.2023.2.02

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Volume 68, No. 2, 2023

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