Centrality, competitiveness and governance of medium-sizes cities n Brazil

Abstract

This study presents key findings from the research project "Competitiveness and Governance of Medium-Sized Cities in Brazil", developed by the Institute for Applied Economic Research (IPEA). The project aims to provide a reference framework to support public policies, focusing on urban productivity, competitiveness, and governance improvements for sustainable urban and regional development. A total of 230 medium-sized cities were identified across three macro-regions: Amazon, Northeast, and Central-South, with distinct regional dynamics in urbanization, economic, and demographic trends. Based on integrated analyses of centrality and competitiveness, 70 cities were selected as strategic for policy guidance. These cities demonstrate their role as regional hubs in connecting urban and regional spaces, supported by key indicators such as urban infrastructure, economic potential, and governance capacity. The study also evaluates urban governance through 32 case studies, emphasizing the spatial expansion of urbanized areas, planning efficacy, municipal finances, and community participation. The findings highlight the economic and demographic dynamism of medium-sized cities as critical components of Brazil’s urban network and their potential to foster decentralization and regional equity.