Unequal and dependent development: the Minho region in the northwest of Portugal

Abstract

Drawing on statistical data, this paper analyses how and why the Minho region (Braga and Viana do Castelo districts) came to hold its semi-peripheral position, not only in relation to central regions but to urban centres such as Lisbon and Porto. Subsequently, it presents a number of development models: neoliberal theories on growth and modernisation, the neo-institutional perspective, neoMarxist versions of independence and centre-periphery relations, besides territorialism theory. Using the method of statistical analysis of socio-demographic indicators, a clear socioeconomic difference between social groups and sectors was verified. Nevertheless, despite upgrades in infrastructure and transport, Minho suffers from socioeconomic, educational and cultural inequities created by endogenous and exogenous factors such as the globalisation that is currently taking place