Disputed territories: A case study in rural emptied spain

Abstract

This paper analyses the trajectory of public policies in the face of the problem of depopula-tion, both at the socioeconomic level and for its impacts on the lives of thousands who are being dis-placed. It is based on a diagnosis to characterize the dimension of the problem. Then we reflect on the socioeconomic development model and its spatial impacts. We problematize the issue of depopulation incorporating approaches to the geography of power, the conceptions of space and territory, and the challenges of “empty space” in the context of disputes about natural and strategic resources. Finally, we analyze the socio-cultural impact and the rupture of community ties. Although the work is relevant to all of Spain, but it focuses on the Community of Castile and Leon, and more specifically León given that it is one of the provinces with the greatest depopulation and with less institutional support.