Regional development: theories and international experiences for Vietnam

Abstract

Regional Development is currently a hot research topic, draws the attention of many researchers domestically and internationally. Problems posed today for the development of different regions inside a country, such gap in level of development and populataion quality; economic, cultural, educational, and training issues; especially the strategic and crucial role of these areas in national security, politics, and defence have created a growing challenge for the governments in country’s development planning which focuses on equal development, boosting the potential of each region, and promoting sustainable development across the country. The emergence of regional development approaches and theories is thus a necessity to provide a solid theoretical basis for policy-making process. This article reviews some common theories of regional development as well as international experiences in regional development. Study on different theories and models of regional development in various countries around the world will provide a clearer awareness of the real situation in Vietnam, and the arising issues as well as the corresponding preliminary solutions to regional development in Vietnam.