Changes in Hungarian spatial differences during the past two decades

This paper examines the differentiated development and the levels of development of 20 unit areas of Hungary (19 counties + Budapest) over the time. The authors form indicators from the data of 1994, 2003 and 2014(2013) as well as from the census data of 2001 and 2011 and they draw conclusions from the extreme values. They claim that, over the two decades, spatial differences occurred instead of levelling. The ratio of the upper and lower extreme values all relevant indicators increased. Considering the important indicators some regions might have stepped forward in the development ranking, the others lagging behind and also the extending investment volume inhibited the progress and as a result the expansion of the field strengthened. Over the last two decades the development resources - including those for catching up - did not bring the expected results. This is most detrimental for the population living and working in regions lagging behind. The resulting migration - in case the investment policy does not change - will worsen the situation further