Introduction – Regions and territories: Evolutions and changes

Abstract

[eng] This special issue deals with three topics that dominate the current public debate on the regions and territories of France : the architecture of territorial institutions ; the supposed divergence between metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas ; . the impact of technological transformations and globalisation. On the first point, particular attention should be called to the weak theoretical foundations underpinning a very empirically run reform process. While the complexity of territorial organisational is not specific to France, the relatively limited powers granted to the local authorities is even more so. On the second point, the much publicized image of the “ two France”, contrasting that of metropolises and their globalised elites to that of the suburbs and the losers of globalisation, is disputed. If there is a social divide, it crosses through cities and territories. Lastly, with regard to the criss crossing effects of technological change and international trade, it is important to acknowledge the trends toward bi polarisation in qualifications, as well as to take into account the complexity of its spatial effects, in contrast to some popular misconceptions.