In this paper, we suggest a general framework that allows testing simultaneously for temporal heterogeneity, spatial heterogeneity and spatial autocorrelation in beta-convergence models. Based on a sample of 145 European regions over the 1980-1999 period, we estimate a Seemingly Unrelated...

This paper analyzes the evolution of labor productivity disparities among 145 European regions over 1975-2000 according to the concepts of ƒã- and ƒÒ-convergence and emphasizes the importance of including spatial effects and a disaggregated analysis at a sectoral level. We detect a...

This paper estimates the impact of structural funds on the convergence process between 145 European regions over 1989-1999. Since the majority of these funds finance transportation infrastructures, they induce spillover effects, industry relocation and do not necessarily succeed in reducing...