Les territoires industriels face aux effets cumulés du déclin démographique et économique : quelles perspectives avec la métropolisation ?

Despite its demographic growth, France faces depopulation over part of its territory. In this country, demographic decline is confined to a few rural areas or old industrial regions. Yet, the depopulation process is notable because its consistency and its timing lead to questions about its irreversibility in affected territories.The article focuses on the process of depopulation facing the formerly industrialized areas of French territory. It follows case studies conducted in France, primarily in urban areas. Those studies focus on the responses of local actors. The example of the Ardennes region illustrates the link between population and economic decline. After observing the depopulation in this territory, we investigate the reasons for the high degree of specialization in the economy. Finally, we indicate solutions driven by local actors. Based on revitalization of the economy and the strengthening of inter-municipal cooperation, these responses reflect a desire to be part of the metropolization process