Inequality for greater equality? A review of special economic zones for vulnerable municipalities
Abstract
This review examines whether place-based institutional variation, including special economic zones, could help structurally weak and vulnerable municipalities. It surveys international examples and research on economic geography, local capacity and place-based development. The authors find that special-zone initiatives are not a universal remedy and are difficult to evaluate, but may complement existing regional policy when tied to clearly identified barriers, measurable goals, sustained governance and evaluation. The report does not recommend immediate adoption in Sweden; it argues for a more systematic assessment of the principle.
Erlingsson, G. Ó., Bergh, A., & Wernberg, J. (2026). Olikhet för ökad likvärdighet?: En kunskapsöversikt om frizonsprinciper för att revitalisera struktursvaga och sårbara kommuner. Länsförsäkringars forskningsstiftelse.. Inequality for greater equality? A review of special economic zones for vulnerable municipalities