OECD Territorial Reviews: Northern Sparsely Populated Areas
The northern sparsely populated areas (NSPA) of Finland, Norway and Sweden are becoming increasingly important to the geopolitical and economic interests of these countries and the European Union. These regions have unique geographical characteristics - low population density and a harsh climate - and face specific challenges due to an ageing population, long distances from markets, and high-cost land transport. However, high productivity growth is possible in low-density regions. This report sets out policy recommendations at cross-border, national and regional scales to enhance prosperity and well-being across the NSPA. This includes closer co-operation with national governments to address shared challenges and opportunities such as improving east-west transport connections and reducing occupational and skills barriers to labour mobility, and addressing barriers to business growth such as access to finance.
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Central Ostrobothnia, Finland (Northern Sparsely Populated Area)
The purpose of this case study is to provide recommendations for the Regional Council of Central Ostrobothnia to enhance productivity, growth and service delivery outcomes within the context of the NSPA collaboration. The case study begins by outlining the assessment and recommendations. An overview of the region is then provided, followed by an analysis of regional economic performance. The case study concludes with an assessment of key assets/opportunities and bottlenecks/risks facing the region.
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