Spatial Disparities in Human Development

Spatial disparities are a measure of the unequal distribution of income, wealth, power and resources between peoples in different locations. As a dimension of overall inequality, spatial disparities have added signifi cance when combined with regional divisions and political and ethnic tensions that can undermine social and political stability. The accurate measure- ment of spatial disparities and the analysis of their causes and consequences are therefore of particular importance. This book focuses on issues of poverty and inequality that are directly related to the Millennium Development Goals. It addresses a wide range of issues including confl ict-in- equality, inter-linkages, poverty mapping, and the causes and consequences of inequality. It applies the latest research techniques such as regression-based decomposition, poverty decomposition and computable general equilibrium models. The authors examine spatial disparities in countries and regions that are attracting consid erable professional and political attention, such as China, Russia and Central Asian countries. Containing theoretical and empirical contributions by some of the most prominent economists in the area of inequality and development studies, this book will be of interests to economists, sociologists and policymakers in Asia and elsewhere.