Economic inequality in the context of sustainable development: а geographical perspective

This article explores economic inequality as a complex societal phenomenon with both global and regional dimensions, exerting a direct impact on the trajectory of sustainable development. An interdisciplinary approach is applied, integrating economic, social, and geographical perspectives to identify the root causes and consequences of uneven distribution of material and social resources. The main objective of the research is to construct a comprehensive understanding of the spatial structure of economic inequality and to outline possible mechanisms for addressing it. The historical foundations and root causes of inequality are examined in detail, including post-colonial legacies, inequalities in access to resources, and unequal starting conditions across countries and regions.The paper reviews major theoretical approaches to inequality – such as modernization theory, dependency theory, world-systems analysis, neoliberalism, and institutionalism — and revisits them through the lens of spatial analysis. The importance of applying a geographical approach, which allows identifying territorial patterns of inequality and systematizing disparities on a global, national, and local scale, is substantiated. Modern methodologies for measuring inequality are considered, from classical statistical indices (Gini, Theil, Palma) to integrated indicators of sustainable development. The study demonstrates how spatial visualization tools (cartography, GIS technologies) enhance the understanding and comparison of regional contrasts. Particular attention is paid to the consequences of economic inequality for sustainable development, including reduced social mobility, deepening poverty, declining institutional trust, rising social tensions, and unequal access to basic services. The study argues that reducing inequality is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic priority for achieving balanced and inclusive development. Ultimately, the article validates the geographical approach as an effective tool for spatial diagnostics, strategic planning, and targeted policy-making across governance levels. Future research directions include in-depth analysis of regional case studies, exploration of the spatio-temporal dynamics of inequality, and evaluation of the effectiveness of policy instruments aimed at its mitigation.