Core-periphery patterns

• Core countries are typically a central region, with good communications and high population density, which contributes to their prosperity.
• The Core and Periphery model was developed in 1963 by John Friedmann
• Peripheral regions have poorer infrastructure, lower levels of economic development, and fewer opportunities compared to core areas.
• In the UK, London is considered as part of the core due to its strong economy, transport links, and cultural significance.
• The model suggests that core regions experience higher levels of economic development, infrastructure, and access to resources, while periphery regions, often rural and remote areas, do not.
• Several factors contribute to the formation of a core region, for example, the concentration of industry with advanced technology and skilled labour force.
• One factor that contributes to the formation of a core region is the access to transport networks, such as ports and major markets.
• Another factor that contributes to the formation of a core region is the availability of financial institutions, research centres, and educational facilities.
• One factor that leads to the formation of a core region is the development of infrastructure, including reliable electricity, water and communication systems.
• The core-periphery model explains regional inequalities by suggesting that core regions accumulate economic wealth and resources, whilst periphery regions experience a lack of investment and development.
• Economic activities tend to be concentrated in core regions, which leads to the uneven distribution of wealth, income and development indicators between the two.
• Periphery regions can transition to core regions by investing in infrastructure, education and healthcare to improve human capital.
• Periphery regions can transition to core regions by promoting local industries to stimulate economic growth.
• Periphery regions can transition to core regions by using strategic regional planning and development to attract investment and stimulate economic activities.
• The core-periphery model has faced criticism due to several limitations including: simplification- the model assumes a binary division between core and periphery, neglect of cultural and historical factors- the model focuses on economic factors over social or cultural factors, the role of globalisation- as the model does not consider the impacts of this on trade, etc, and limited focus on local agency- as the model overlooks the initiatives of local communities in driving development.