Developing a conceptual framework towards sustainable development in a less developed region of the EU: The case of Centro Region

Smart Specialization has been used as one of the main theoretical frameworks and arguments behind Regional innovation and development policies in the European Union in recent years. One of its distinctive features is presented... [ view full abstract ]

Smart Specialization has been used as one of the main theoretical frameworks and arguments behind Regional innovation and development policies in the European Union in recent years. One of its distinctive features is presented as being a strategic approach to regional economic development directed at supporting research and innovation, using a bottom-up entrepreneurial process of discovery. This process prioritizes regional areas of specialization through the assessment of specific strengths and assets. However, it is often argued that smart specialization does not address adequately the developmental needs of all types of regions. Additionally, and despite the recurrent Sustainable Development (SD) discourse present in the international and European political agenda, it is not evident that Smart Specialization strategies (S3) integrate SD goals and practices. In fact, S3 may present challenges for less developed regions due to their characteristics and need for SD practices. The research presented in this paper aims to assess and discuss the degree of embeddedness of the SD discourse in regional development strategies of less developed regions of the EU, using the Centro Region (Portugal) as a case study. A multi-method research design was used. First, an assessment of the S3 of the Centro Region was carried out, through a content analysis, examining the conceptual integration of SD concerns and goals into the strategy. Following this and in order to assess what the main Centro Region stakeholders understand as paramount for the development of this region, a two-stage workshop was held with local civil society organizations, universities, industry representatives and local governments. Preliminary findings point to the conceptual apprehension of the SD discourse in the regional development strategy focusing on sustainability practices but suggesting a mismatch among the positions and practices of different stakeholders. This research may help to set stronger agendas for regional development towards sustainability in less developed regions of the European Union.

Keywords: Sustainability, regional development, smart specialization, lagging regions, innovation