Understanding the role and potential of the peripheral region

Abstract

Globalisation, a rapidly changing economic landscape, innovation resulting in leaps in communication and technology, and the 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR) describe a transforming world, where change happens fast, and if you do not keep up - you are left behind. The impact of rapid and continuous changes across the globe is significant for regions such as the SADC, which is already experiencing lagging growth and is unable to reach its potential. The persistent and growing inequality in the social, economic, and spatial environment worldwide is more visible than ever and increasing every day.