Οικονομική ανισότητα και κοινωνική περιθωριοποίηση : μία συγκριτική αξιολόγηση

Βερίγου, Αναστασία

Economic inequality and social marginalization : a comparative assessment

Master Thesis

Author

Βερίγου, Αναστασία

Date

2026-03

Abstract

This study examines the interactions between economic inequality and social marginalization within the framework of the European Union, through the lens of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8 and 10. Through a comparative analysis of indicators related to decent work, economic growth, and the reduction of inequalities, it seeks to capture the differences and similarities between the countries of Northern and Southern Europe. GDP per capita was used as the main comparison indicator to explore its correlation with various social and economic indicators, such as the unemployment rate, the Gini index, the Palma Ratio, the poverty rate among the elderly, the risk of poverty or social exclusion, and the early school-leaving rate. The data were sourced from Eurostat, enabling a reliable and longitudinal assessment of the countries’ progress. The results show that although countries with higher GDP per capita achieve better performance in most socio-economic indicators, this relationship is not absolute. Economic wealth is a necessary but not sufficient condition for reducing inequalities. Institutions, redistributive policies, the quality of education, and the effectiveness of social protection mechanisms play a decisive role. Conversely, in countries where institutions remain weak, inequalities and job insecurity persist, even under conditions of economic growth. Taking the above into consideration, as well as the comparative analysis conducted within the framework of this thesis, it becomes evident that the countries of Northern Europe, thanks to their greater economic resilience and stronger institutions, are able to allocate more funds to policies that reduce economic inequality and social marginalization. In contrast, the countries of the South, despite progress, continue to face significant challenges due to limited resources and weaknesses in social protection mechanisms. The study also highlights the interconnection between sustainable development and human rights, as well as the need to integrate a human-centered dimension into economic policy. The climate crisis and social inequality represent two sides of the same coin, requiring a reassessment of priorities at both European and global levels. Overall, the research emphasizes that sustainable development cannot be achieved without social justice, equal opportunities, and inclusive participation in decision-making processes. Progress only acquires real meaning when no one is left behind—when development serves humanity and not the other way around.

Postgraduate Studies Programme

Βιοοικονομία, Κυκλική Οικονομία και Βιώσιμη Ανάπτυξη

Department

Σχολή Οικονομικών, Επιχειρηματικών και Διεθνών Σπουδών. Τμήμα Οικονομικής Επιστήμης

Number of pages

148

Language

Greek

URI

https://dione.lib.unipi.gr/xmlui/handle/unipi/19040

Collections

Τμήμα Οικονομικής Επιστήμης

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Except where otherwise noted, this item's license is described as
Αναφορά Δημιουργού-Μη Εμπορική Χρήση-Όχι Παράγωγα Έργα 3.0 Ελλάδα