Drivers of depopulation and spatial interdependence in a regional context

There is a growing consensus on the need to propose specific policies tackle ongoing population decline in extensive rural areas of Southern Europe. Developing target this issue requires assessment spatial, economic and structural conditions that explain why municipality experiences depopulation. This study explores drivers growth municipalities Mediterranean region officially known as Comunitat Valenciana Spain. relatively urbanized, so allows explore spatial interdependence between belong urban areas, some them subject significant The study's findings, based approach, help their with neighbouring communities. A model defined drawing several dimensions related dynamics: accessibility, conditions, public facilities services, natural amenities, degree urbanization. findings show dynamics given are influenced by its surrounding municipalities, suggesting focusing clusters local administrative units can be central prevent depopulation certain areas.