Research topics

Regional development in the Nordic Region is shaped by diverse geographies, economies, and policy frameworks. Urban areas often experience growth, while rural and remote regions face challenges such as population decline, limited labour supply, and reduced access to services. Balancing these dynamics is key to ensuring sustainable and inclusive development.
Nordregio provides policymakers with comparative insights and practical tools to support knowledge-based decision-making. Through our research, we support balanced, sustainable, and place-based development across the Nordic Region, while also contributing Nordic perspectives to European and international debates.
State of the Nordic Region is Nordregio’s flagship publication on regional development. Published every two years, the report provides a comprehensive overview of key trends shaping the Nordic countries, regions, and municipalities. It draws on the latest statistical data, maps and research-based analysis and highlights key developments on demography, labour market and economy. State of the Nordic Region also features Nordregio’s Regional Potential Index (RPI), which compares the development potential of Nordic regions over time.
Stay tuned for a new updated edition – coming in 2026!
publications
Explore some of Nordregio’s publications related to regional development.