Introduction

Abstract

In 2003, the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) launched an initiative called ‘Building Solidarity’ as part of its urban agenda. The objective was to stimulate private construction companies to support the upgrading of urban low-income settlements in developing countries via corporate social responsibility (CSR). While a few initial attempts were made to link some companies and low-income settlements on an individual basis, it was felt that ‘Building Solidarity’ could only reach scale with the involvement of international organisations representing the relevant stakeholders. Therefore, UNV approached SDI (Slum/Shacks Dwellers International), representing low-income communities, and a construction industry association.