What about Left-Behind Places in the Global South? A Narrative Review
Résumé
The emergence of the concept of "left-behind regions" is closely linked to the
recent rise of populism, characterized by the ascent of far-right ideologies and
violent and/or social movements (Yellow Vests in France, Brexit in the UK). These
phenomena underscore a resurgence of the "spatial question," marking a notable
shift from the era of globalization and metropolitan dominance. In this new
landscape, marginalized populations in these neglected areas are rebeiling
against the dominance of metropolitan elites, fueling the rise of populist and
nationalist political movements. While academic attention has predominantly
focused on neglected territories in Europe and North America, similar dynamics of
neoliberal restructuring and widening socio-spatial disparities are evident in the
Global South.
The relative silence in international research regarding neglected regions in the
Global South prompts inquiry into whether their rising territorial inequalities also
give rise to populism and localized dissent against urban elites. Exploring this, we
endeavor to evaluate the applicability of the "left-behindness" narrative to the
Global South. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature, our study
aims to discern whether neglected regions in the Global South precipitate political
repercussions and if these repercussions manifest in more overtly violent forms
compared to their Northern counterparts.