Poverty and economic inequality by territorial vulnerability

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study is to analyse monetary poverty and economic inequality according to territorial vulnerability in the city of Murcia, at the level of census sections. The risk of poverty at different thresholds and the Gini index for the year 2021 were considered. Methodology: A methodology was designed to identify vulnerable territories based on two phenomena: social exclusion and socio-spatial segregation. This made it possible to classify areas into three categories of territorial vulnerability: excluded, segregated and dual areas. An analysis of socio-spatial segregation was also carried out. Results: The results showed that dual areas had the highest levels of monetary poverty and economic inequality and were the most vulnerable. These findings are consistent with previous studies. Furthermore, both socio-spatial segregation and territorial vulnerability show an upward trend in intensity and extent in the city. Discussion: The research highlights the relationship between socio-spatial segregation and territorial vulnerability, underlining its increase in Murcia. Conclusions: This study suggests that increasing socio-spatial vulnerability and segregation should be addressed through public policies aimed at improving social cohesion.