The national state as mediator of regional development outcomes in a global era - A comparative analysis from the UK and Norway

In recent years, commentators have downplayed the role of the national stat e in shaping regional economic development. In particular it has been argue d that globalization processes are undermining the national level as a cont ainer of economic regulation and action. This has been accompanied by a cel ebration of the regional level as a site for constructing competitive advan tage, amid growing evidence of increased sub-national economic agglomeratio n. This article contests this view, arguing that in the current era the sta te remains a key actor in both mediating the effects of global economic int egration and shaping the trajectories of regional economies. The argument i s illustrated through a comparative analysis of oil-based regional economic developments in the UK and Norway. The case studies highlight the contrast ing role played by the national state in the two countries and the varied s patial outcomes and prospects that arise as a result.