Development Trajectories of Two Industrial Regions in the EU Due to Different Transformation Paths—The Silesian Voivodeship in Poland and North Rhine–Westphalia in Germany

This article compares the socio-economic development of the two industrial EU regions, the Silesian Voivodeship Poland and the Düsseldorf District in North Rhine–Westphalia, Germany, in the last 20 years of the 21st century. The Ninth Cohesion Report, the EU Regional Competitiveness Index 2.0, and the two concepts of the regional development trap and just transition in the EU were used. It investigated whether the applied EU regional policy, cohesion policy, had the expected effect of strengthening sustainable growth in the regions. This article aims to compare development trajectories, identify development traps and barriers, consider the just transition in the analyzed regions, and provide recommendations for regional policy. Those heavily industrialized regions must respond to the demographic challenges of labor shortages and an aging population. In the case of the Silesia region, the indicated course of action includes labor activation of women and migration management. For both regions, improving productivity is the key. The vital economic challenges include: for the Silesian Voivodeship—strengthening innovation; for the Düsseldorf region—maintaining innovation momentum and increasing resilience. Developing skills that meet industries’ needs is essential. Regarding social cohesion, the Silesia region should focus on equality measures. On the other hand, the Düsseldorf region should strengthen social protection against poverty.