Assessing the determinants of territorial cohesion: Evidence from Colombian departments

Territorial cohesion is a concept that is generating growing interest in both the academic-scientific and political arenas. This paper presents an approach to the analysis of territorial cohesion and, more specifically, proposes a definition of the concept and its dimensions in order to empirically test the approach on the Colombian departmental model. To this effect, a methodology was designed that, by using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) to calculate composite indices, measures and evaluates the level of territorial cohesion in Colombian departments from a multidimensional and integrative perspective, and identifies the factors that influence that cohesion. The results could provide useful data for policy makers in the design of public policies to influence factors that facilitate more balanced and inclusive territorial development. This is especially relevant in light of the recent signing and ratification of the Peace Agreement in November 2016, given that the Colombian Government is currently in the process of designing policies that have the potential to promote cohesion within its territories.