Is low-density a viable territorial category for enhancing EU cohesion policy implementation?

• DOI: 10.1080/09654313.2025.2451395
• Publication Date: 2025-01-19T13:49:58Z
• Authors: Tigran Keryan; Vanda Veréb; Livia Madureira; Ricardo Bento; Luis Ramos; Carla Marques; Octávio Sacramento; Thomas Dax
• Keywords: Cohesion (chemistry)

The European Union's (EU) Cohesion Policy (CP) promotes balanced territorial development between and within countries calls for mechanisms to enhance the current approaches territorial, economic social cohesion. Low-density (LD) areas emerged as a category define difference rural urban areas. Although scientific literature discusses various topics activities in low-density areas, there is hardly any holistic definition. Furthermore, their role improving CP implementation remains unclear. This paper an exploratory study aims examine specific characteristics of LD through systematic review see if how it supports CP. research shows that points beyond low population density. It deserves special attention from perspective EU implementation, especially Mediterranean region with its geographic socio-cultural features. Our results also show identifying addressing challenges could contribute more targeted Creating adjusted measurement frameworks tools there, spatial identification mapping are vital place-based 2021–2027 fair allocation state funds.