Border regions: A critique of spatial theory and a European case study

In Europe and North America increasing attention is being devoted to the special problems of border regions. This paper critically summarizes the nature and significance of location theory and the growth pole literature with respect to border region issues and policies. It is argued that neither of these approaches has succeeded in formulating a satisfactory theory of border regions. The tri-national Alsace-Baden-Basel area is examined in some detail for insights that should be instructive in developing such a theory. A number of implications for border region analysis are suggested. In contrast to the prevailing view in the relevant literature, the advantages of border regions are stressed over the disadvantages.