Analysis of the development differences in Hungarian LAU1 districts

The complex analysis of different territorial units, regions or micro-regions is a very topical issue today, both globally and in Hungary. As we know, it is the continuity of changes at the spatial level that causes spatial inequalities, so it can be said that no two spatial units on Earth have the same characteristics. These changes have an impact on the economic growth, competitiveness and spatial development of a given territory, as well as on the living conditions and living standards of its inhabitants. As a result of the continuous changes in social, economic and infrastructural factors, we will examine a very complex issue, the main focus of which will be on the developmental differences and trends in the Hungarian districts (LAU1). In Hungary, the district system, which is the territorial level between settlements and counties, has a long history, since the earliest districts were established in the 13th century as administrative formations. Nowadays, districts (LAU1) are also located between the administrative level of counties and municipalities, as the lowest territorial and organisational level of state administration. The establishment of districts and the amendment of the related legislation is provided for in Act XCIII of 2012. In total, there are 197 districts, 23 of which are in the capital city.