An Overview of the Recent Evolution of the Socioeconomic Dimension of Inequality. The Case of CEE Countries

Abstract

Abstract This research explores the evolution of several socioeconomic indicators belonging to the aggregate dimension of inequality (income, health, life expectancy, education, and sustainable development) in 5 CEE countries spanning 2010-2019. A special focus is dedicated to Romania’s national and regional framework due to mixed evidence concerning inequality’s impact on economic growth, poverty and human development. Our main results show a high value of this group’s recorded human development index (HDI), indicating an elevated level of the population’s well-being. Nevertheless, further analyses reflect severe disparities among countries and regions in terms of productivity, earnings, and social inclusion, corroborated by losses in education and welfare due to increased inequality.