On October 7, 2025, scientists from several countries gathered in Berlin to discuss the political impact of spatial inequalities.
Particular attention was paid to developments and perceptions in Eastern Central Europe. Many regions in Europe are experiencing economic stagnation, population decline, and inadequate public services. However, perceptions of this situation are by no means uniform: in addition to political frustration and mistrust, residents also express attachment to their region, commitment, and confidence. Political discontent is not widespread, but varies depending on social situation, regional context, and local points of comparison.
In Eastern Central Europe, it has become particularly clear that historical developments and post-socialist transformation processes are reflected in spatial inequalities. There, economic weakness, social exclusion, and processes of decline are often more intertwined than in Western Europe. This can foster political alienation and support for right-wing populist parties, but varies greatly depending on the country, region, and population group. Regional conditions shape political attitudes, but do not explain them entirely—individual experiences remain central.
The scientists involved in the project “Social and Political Consequences of Spatial Inequalities” discussed their analytical results with eight experts from various European countries during a workshop. The workshop took place on October 7, 2025, in Berlin.
The research project is funded by the German Research Foundation and partner organizations in Czechia (Czech Science Foundation) and Poland (National Science Centre) as part of the Weave Lead Agency Initiative. In this project, the Thünen Institute of Rural Development is cooperating with the Institue of Sociology of the Czech Academy of Sciences and the Institute of Geography and Spatial Organization of the Polish Academy of Sciences.