Abstract

The main goal of this study is to analyse territorial inequalities in Italy, focusing on the gaps between Inner and Central Areas in economic, demographic and socio-cultural performance. Using municipal data and the SNAI classification, the paper examines whether the Inner Areas are actually disadvantaged on various indicators, if peripherality plays a significant role with respect to the geographical macro-area, and whether differences between Inner and Central Areas are uniform across the country or vary across macro-areas. The results, based on regression models and related post-estimation techniques, indicate that territorial inequalities in Italy are influenced by a complex interaction between geographical and periphery-related factors. While geographic macro-areas play a predominant role on many indicators, territorial peripherality contributes in a relevant, independent, and not always negative way. The research suggests that a comprehensive understanding of territorial inequalities requires a careful consideration of both dimensions and their interactions.