This timely book investigates the challenges that emerge for local economies when faced with the new globalization trends that characterize today's world economy. In this instance, globalization is interpreted as a process of internationalization of production and markets which can take various forms - such as increasing international trade or increasing foreign direct investments - all of which give rise to the growing integration and interdependency of European economies with regard to the other main world economies. The expert contributors use a fresh perspective in their analysis of globalization trends, emphasizing recent changes and providing an up-to-date picture of current developments in both foreign investments and the consequent migration of human capital. Qualitative rather than quantitative trends in human capital and financial capital flows are taken into account, with a particular focus on their impacts on regional growth perspectives.

Highlighting the European economy's strengths and weaknesses in facing the challenges of the new globalization trends, this book will provide a stimulating read for a wide-ranging audience encompassing scholars of regional science, regional economics, economic and regional geography, international economics and international business.

Contributors: T. Baycan, C. Behrens, R. Camagni, R. Capello, F. Carballo-Cruz, L. Casi, J.C. das Neves, T.P. Dentinho, K.P. Donaghy, N.O. Martins, A. Mendes, B. Neuts, P. Nijkamp, J.P. Pontes, L. Resmini, M. Sahin, J.R. Silva, A. Todiras