Cohesion and convergence along the hispano-portuguese border in Castilla y León (1986-2016): Population, economy and territory

The areas of Castilla y León bordering the North and Centre regions of Portugal are situated in the respective national and regional peripheries. Within the European Union these areas are considered as a geographically disadvantaged space. The intention of the EU structural and cohesion policies has been to reduce socioeconomic deprivation, which characterized the peripheral situation of these areas. The aim of this article is to assess the local socioeconomic and spatial development after the incorporation of Spain into the European Community in 1986 up to the present. The conclusion reveals that social cohesion and quality of life are worsening as well as the traditional economy, whereas progress is made in tourism, cross-border interaction and the protection of natural and cultural heritage.