Globalization, neoliberalism, and regional competitiveness: argumentation notes

Abstract

This article aims to explore the concept of competitiveness from a geographical perspective and a critical approach, seeking to demonstrate how the discourse and practices associated with planning policies to achieve the competitiveness for countries and subnational spaces (such as regions, territories, places, and cities) are intertwined with the imperatives of the current phase of neoliberal globalization. Given that local and regional conditions have become increasingly decisive in the efficient production, circulation and commercialization of hegemonic agents, the competitive integration of goods and services into international markets fundamentally relies on the capacities of space to generate high productivity and fluidity. However, the relentless pursuit for competitiveness at any cost has resulted in socially, economically, and environmentally harmful impacts, particularly in the commodity-producing regions of peripheral countries. This drive has intensified the “war between places”, deepened geographical inequalities, and heightened territorial vulnerability.