Periféreia

Periféreia is a Greek word meaning periphery or outskirts. In a geographical context, it refers to the regions located at the edges of a country, state, or administrative division, as opposed to the central or core areas. These peripheral areas often have distinct socio-economic characteristics and may experience different levels of development compared to the more central regions.

The concept of periféreia is significant in understanding spatial organization and regional disparities. It can encompass rural areas, border regions, or areas that are geographically remote from major urban centers and economic hubs. Issues such as access to services, infrastructure, and economic opportunities can be more challenging in periféreia, leading to debates about regional equity and development policies.

In administrative terms, periféreia can also refer to specific administrative regions within a country. For instance, Greece itself is divided into thirteen periféreies, which are the highest-level administrative subdivisions. Each periféreia has its own regional council and governor, responsible for certain aspects of local governance and development planning within its territory. These administrative periféreies are not always strictly defined by their geographical position on the edge of the country but by their administrative function and historical development.