Productivity and Jobs in a Globalised World: (How) Can All Regions Benefit?  
​Across the globe, within the OECD and the European Union, there has been a remarkable decline in inequality across countries. However, over the same time period, inequality among regions within a country has grown in many OECD countries. But not all countries are experiencing growing divides. 

The OECD report ‘Rethinking lagging regions: Using Cohesion Policy to deliver on the potential of Europe’s regions’ focuses on productivity growth and jobs in regions and discusses how policy can support them. Regions that narrowed productivity gaps tended to benefit from economically vibrant tradable sectors and integration with well-functioning cities. 

The report considers in detail the role of the tradable sector as a driver of productivity growth and its relationship with employment. It addresses the possible risks that a growing tradable sector might entail and how diversification is central in strengthening regional economic resilience. It considers how regions integrate in global value chains and highlights the role of regional and policy links in fostering productivity growth and job creation. It asks what policies can help better anticipate or cushion shocks from trade in specific regions and, more generally, what strategies and framework condition are conducive for regional productivity and employment growth. After the briefing, journalists will be welcome to approach the speakers for interviews.​

Welcome:
  • Thomas Wobben, Director for Political Works, European Committee of the Regions 
Spearkers:
  • Joaquim Oliveira Martins, OECD, Centre for Entrepreneurship, SMEs, Regions and Cities, Special Advisor to the Director
  • Thomas Farole, World Bank, Lead Economist in the Social Protection and Jobs Global Practice
Moderator:
  • Lewis Dijkstra, European Commission, DG for Regional and Urban Policy, Head of the Economic Analysis sector


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