Spatial inequalities and social exclusion in rural and peripheral Europe: gendered evidence from a minority mountain region in Greece

This paper examines how spatial inequalities are associated with processes of social exclusion in a peripheral rural and mountainous region of Greece, focusing on the Municipality of Myki in the Regional Unit of Xanthi. It explores how geographical remoteness, limited accessibility and weak local economic structures are associated with unequal access to education and employment. The analysis draws on data from the 2021 Population and Housing Census and applies a comparative framework across local, regional and national levels to identify persistent territorial disparities. The findings indicate that the limited diversification and low absorptive capacity of the local labour market are associated with restricted employment opportunities and weaker local development. Educational outcomes also reflect territorial constraints, highlighting the close relationship between place, human capital and labour-market participation. Gender differences further illustrate the association between socio-spatial disadvantage and opportunities for economic and social inclusion. Rather than viewing peripheral regions as internally homogeneous, the study demonstrates the importance of local-scale analysis for understanding territorial inequalities. It argues that more effective place-based development strategies should integrate improvements in accessibility, education, labour-market opportunities and local economic diversification to promote more inclusive and territorially balanced development.