ABSTRACT
The analysis of marginalized areas and peoples demonstrates that marginal regions world-wide are undergoing significant changes due to the volatility of political, social and economic processes both in developed (north) and less developed (south) areas. Parallel to this evolution, a general degrada tion of the ecosystem can be detected. Such changes are evident between macro and micro levels and at global, national, regional and minor civil division scales. Advancements in communication efficiency, entrepreneu rial technology, and the shifting character of industrial organization are revolutionizing the process and structure of marginality in both north and south countries. Political unions (e.g. European Union), free trade and enterprise zones, transnational corporations and economic mergers of institutions (e.g. NAFTA) are impacting the nature of marginalization throughout the world.
