Estudio de la convergencia regional española

Abstract

In this thesis the economic and social convergence in Spain since 1988 to 2012 is analysed. Generally, the convergence analysis among the different Spanish regions is usually carried out by comparing real GPD per capita. However, if we only consider this variable, it just shows a partial view of convergence phenomenon. In fact, this variable doesn’t provide any information about life expectancy or education level. Consequently, the analysis is carried out from the point of view of social well-being in terms of GPD per capita, education level, life expectancy and rate of unemployment. In this research the techniques have been used for finding convergence are beta and sigma convergence. Another interesting question that arises when different variables in a geographic area are analysed is the spatial autocorrelation. It measures the correlation of a variable with itself through space and I the Moran is statistician used. For example, measurements made at nearby regions may be closer in value than measurements made at regions farther apart. In the same way, this fact is studied remains during the following years. The relationship between convergence and spatial autocorrelation is another important question in regional convergence so it’s analysed. The structure of this research is as follows. In the first place, the aims of this study and the reasons for doing it are described. Then, a brief description about the economic history context of Spain since 1988 to 2012 is given. Before beginning the convergence study, the process of how all the variables and estimations are obtained is explained. When the database has been built up, the statistic analysis is done. After that, if any autocorrelation exists among regions and whether it remains over time is studied. Finally, an analysis of the beta and sigma convergences with the economic and social variables is carried out.