Research on inequalities: How regional differences shape our lives!

Research on inequalities: How regional differences shape our lives!

On March 8, 2025, researchers at the Technical University of Dortmund will report on current findings on regional inequality in Germany, which will be examined, among other things, through the work of Christiane Hellmanzik and her team. Hellmanzik is particularly concerned with the causes of these inequalities, which are influenced by factors such as age structure, migration, climate change and infrastructure. Together with Prof. Jens Wrona, she analyzes the effects of the German occupation zones after the Second World War on trade relations. Initial results show that the political orientation of international relations to the present day is shaped by these historical events. This illustrates how deeply history intervenes in current economic reality.

Another project led by Maren Kaliske is dedicated to the voting behavior of European member states with regard to the regulation of CO2-intensive industries. This examines whether states pursue common goals or try to gain competitive advantages by relying on emissions-intensive industries. Kaliske reports that binding environmental agreements within the EU appear to avoid undesirable effects in these regulatory processes.

Research on structural inequalities

The work on regional inequality in Germany deals with a complex network of factors. One goal is to develop a comprehensive view of spatial disparities. To this end, the research examines over 40 indicators, which are condensed into twelve dimensions of inequality. Cluster analyzes are carried out at district level and supplemented by case studies and small-scale observations of individual regions. The significant differences between East and West Germany since reunification as well as the striking differences between urban and rural areas are particularly emphasized.

This comprehensive analysis aims to shed light on the different dimensions and impacts of regional inequality. The authors of the research project - Hülz, Krätzig, Siegloch and Streng - publish their findings in ZEW Discussion Paper No. 24-015, published in Mannheim 2024. The presentation of this work underlines the need for a differentiated view of the problems caused by regional inequality.

Preparation and teamwork

Christiane Hellmanzik emphasizes the importance of communication and trust between professors and doctoral students. In her experience, good teamwork is essential for successfully applying for a graduate program. She and her team began working on the continuation application for the Regional Disparities & Economic Policy graduate school two years before the submission deadline, which was extended by the DFG for four years in 2024. Kaliske, herself part of the graduate school, describes her doctorate as a significant gain, supported by a broad network that enriches research.

The collaboration between researchers and their regular exchange formats not only promote scientific dialogue, but also strengthen the foundation for future research projects. This collegial environment is seen as crucial for developing innovative approaches that can ultimately help solve regional development challenges.