Territoriella identiteter och fusioner : Regional identitet vid interregionala fusioner

Sammanfattning: Title: Territorial identities and fusions - regional identity by interregional fusions   Level: Final assignment for Bachelors Degree in Social Science with specialization in Urban and Regional Planning. Major subject: Geography.   Author: Mladen Krajisnik   Supervisor: Carl-Johan Nordblom   Date: 2009 May   Intention: The main focus of this study is to verify the existence, or nonexistence, of local and regional identities. Considering the result regarding regional identities, this thesis will continue on to clarify if these identities are to be seemed as a threat or resource during fusions, and if so, how can one best manage these different identities. Method: Only secondary data has been used in this study. I've botanized amongst the literature that processes fusions, impact of culture, identities, regions, territory. Continuing on, the collected empirical resources have been compared to my theory, from which an analysis was able to be spawned and conclusions were drawn. Result & Conclusions: The thesis confirms different regional identities, although it does not treat the subject regarding the inner strength of regions comparing to one another. Furthermore, when fusions are initiated it is strongly vital that the different regional identities are supported, promoted and encouraged. A fusion consisting of many different identities is to be preferred ahead a homogenous one. Media has an vital part in structuring regional identities by the instruments of radio, newspapers and TV. Suggestions for future research: Which effects may the fusion between Växjö University and Högskolan  i Kalmar have, when merging into the Linné University? Are there any other similar examples one can study? Which factors should one consider regarding fusions of Universities? Contribution of the thesis: This study clarifies and explains regional identities, the impact of culture, fusions, territory and why and how one should promote heterogeneous fusions. Key words: Mergers/fusions, regions, identity, culture, territory, integration process.