Abstract
Regional development has had a long and contested history globally and in South Africa. Spatial Keynesianism from earlier decades failed to address the development challenges of many lagging regions, leading to greater emphasis now being placed on market-focussed solutions and, more recently, on place-based development, which targets the unique needs and potential of all places. Ultimately regional development is influenced by prevailing levels of 'uneven geographical development', embedded historical factors, prevailing levels of resilience and variation in local skills, leadership and political considerations. An examination of international evidence, including from the EU, shows us the nature of current regional development interventions, the persistent challenges that exist and the need to find strategic solutions that can address development challenges in economically and socially just ways. As such, international experience can help guide and inform future policy choices in South Africa.