Lessons Learned from Case Studies

Abstract

To summarize, it appears, from the 15 cases studied, that a certain number of tell-tale traits can be distinguished beyond the specificities of each case.

To begin, we must distinguish between slums located on the periphery – which critically lack basic equipment and connections – and those in central areas, where the residential environment is severely dilapidated. Strong pressure from property developers in city centres and difficulty acquiring land are crucial issues. Whether planning for the territory as a whole or for more occasional development work, urban transformations impact both current slum populations and those to come. It is essential to identify the players involved and the way these changes are then implemented, be it within the framework of dialogue or as a result of power struggles, even conflicts. Either way, urban authorities play a vital role in heeding the slums. Certain studies highlight the key role of community associations – and external partners, NGOs and universities to a lesser extent – in developing alternative strategies at the local level, given that political ambitions are often tied to the private interests of national or foreign property developers.

The analyses of the 19 authors of this work provide keys for identifying the problematics of slums and their pivotal role in territorial, social, economic and political dynamics. The analyses likewise dispel the chaotic image of slums, and propose instead that we view them as element revelatory of an urban planning style that is far from embodying the principles of sustainable development.