Theme 3: Abstract for WG 1
3.1 Micro-urbanisation in rural and sparsely populated areas
Organisers:
Corresponding working group convener: Linda Lundmark, Department of Geography and Economic History, Umeå University, Sweden, linda.lundmark@umu.se
Marco Eimermann, Department of Geography and economic history, Umeå University, Sweden
Doris Carson, department of geography and economic history, Umeå University, Sweden
Abstract:
This proposed work group is mainly focusing on different mobile populations and their impact on local and regional development as well as population (re-)distribution and small-scale urbanization, or “micro-urbanisation” in rural and sparsely populated areas. Urbanisation and related processes have been studied at length but migration to and resettlement in sparse and peripheral areas has gained less research attention. Examples are national and international lifestyle-related mobility from the larger cities to rural and peripheral areas or the stream of asylum seekers and refugees concentrated to places that have housing and service capabilities. Mobilities can be permanent, temporary, seasonal or consist of long distance commuting between several residences, but all have impacts on the local population and the economy. Some places in traditional resource peripheries are thus slowly transformed: attractive destinations may grow while others are still losing population and this does not follow traditional patterns of mobilities. The question is how these processes and outcomes may be described and understood.
Arrangement: Traditional presentations
Abstract forwarded to: linda.lundmark@umu.se and info@ruralities.org before Jan. 1st 2018