The diagonale du vide, coined by French geographers in the 1980s, describes rural regions in France characterized by low population density and limited infrastructure. Spanning from the Ardennes to the Pyrénées, it contains areas like the Massif Central, home to Europe's oldest volcano. Despite covering 42 percent of France, these regions house only 6.5 percent of the population. The term is criticized for being inaccurate and patronizing, as it misrepresents the vibrancy of these areas and detracts from efforts to improve investment and attract new inhabitants, all while highlighting existing inequalities.
The diagonale du vide is a term describing a band of rural areas in France with low population density, transportation, and basic infrastructure. It spans from the Ardennes to the Pyrénées mountains, cutting through the Massif Central, which hosts Europe's largest dormant volcano.
While the diagonale du vide represents 42 percent of France, it only has 6.5 percent of the population. The term reflects historical rural exodus and highlights inequalities in rural areas, including lack of public transportation and healthcare access.
The label 'empty diagonal' has been criticized as stigmatising, as it suggests nothing exists in these areas, which hampers efforts to attract investment and new residents. Vincent Béal emphasizes the negative implications of labeling these regions as 'empty'.
Criticism of the term includes its inaccuracy and patronizing nature. Local stakeholders argue it is counterproductive in fostering a positive image and economic growth in areas that have more to offer than the label suggests.
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