ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the nature of marginal regions, the process of spatial marginalization, selected development issues, and policy and strategy. Since marginal regions stem from the complex interplay of numerous factors, it scarcely surprises that no study has yet proposed a comprehensive definition having operational utility. Since research on spatial marginality encompasses a wide array of development issues, it would seem appropriate to focus initially, if briefly, on the traditional problems of the rural periphery. Technological development in marginal areas can accelerate the decline in the well-being of communities its advent was intended to help. Several evaluations of development policy applied to marginal regions disclose improvements in social conditions, infrastructure, and even employment levels but limited success in boosting productivity or diversifying local economies. Spatial marginality is thus a coat of many colours. Although the bulk of the literature to date adopts a multi-faceted approach, numerous studies are confined to socio-economic analysis, a few employing either demographic or economic criteria.
