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Space Relocation and the Politics of Identity in Global Cairo

Daniel Knight

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Published in Remaking The Modern: Space Relocation And The Politics Of Identity In A Global Cairo

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The relocation of communities to new urban peripheries is a global phenomenon that has been driven by a variety of factors, including economic restructuring, political conflict, and environmental change. In Cairo, Egypt, the relocation of communities to the city's peripheries has been particularly pronounced, and has had a profound impact on the city's social and spatial landscape.

This article explores the complex relationship between space relocation and the politics of identity in global Cairo. It examines how the relocation of communities to new urban peripheries has shaped their sense of place and belonging, and how this has been shaped by global forces and local dynamics.

The relocation of communities to urban peripheries is a global phenomenon that has been driven by a variety of factors, including:

Remaking the Modern: Space, Relocation, and the Politics of Identity in a Global Cairo

by Farha Ghannam

5 out of 5

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Economic restructuring: The global economy has undergone a significant restructuring in recent decades, with the rise of the service sector and the decline of manufacturing. This has led to a shift in the location of jobs and economic opportunities, which has in turn led to the relocation of communities to areas where jobs are more plentiful.
Political conflict: Political conflict and violence have also been major drivers of space relocation. In many parts of the world, people have been forced to flee their homes due to war, persecution, or other forms of violence. This has led to the creation of large refugee camps and informal settlements on the outskirts of cities.
Environmental change: Environmental change, including climate change, natural disasters, and pollution, has also led to the relocation of communities. In some cases, communities have been forced to relocate due to rising sea levels or other environmental hazards. In other cases, communities have chosen to relocate to areas with more favorable environmental conditions.

The relocation of communities to the peripheries of Cairo has been particularly pronounced in recent decades. This has been driven by a number of factors, including:

Rapid population growth: Cairo's population has grown rapidly in recent decades, from 4 million in 1950 to over 20 million today. This has put a strain on the city's infrastructure and resources, and has led to the development of new settlements on the city's peripheries.
Government policies: The Egyptian government has also played a role in the relocation of communities to the peripheries. In the 1970s and 1980s, the government implemented a series of policies that encouraged the development of new settlements on the outskirts of Cairo. These policies were designed to relieve overcrowding in the city center and to provide affordable housing for low-income families.
Economic restructuring: The Egyptian economy has also undergone a significant restructuring in recent decades, with the rise of the service sector and the decline of manufacturing. This has led to a shift in the location of jobs and economic opportunities, which has in turn led to the relocation of communities to areas where jobs are more plentiful.

The relocation of communities to new urban peripheries has had a profound impact on their sense of place and belonging. In many cases, communities have been relocated to areas that are far from their traditional homes and communities. This has led to a sense of dislocation and alienation, and has made it difficult for people to maintain their cultural and social ties.

In addition, the relocation of communities to the peripheries has often led to a decline in their quality of life. Peripheries are often characterized by poor housing, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of access to essential services. This can make it difficult for people to live healthy and productive lives.

The relocation of communities to urban peripheries has also had a significant impact on the politics of identity. In many cases, communities have been relocated to areas that are ethnically or religiously different from their traditional homes. This has led to tensions and conflicts between different groups, and has made it difficult for people to develop a sense of shared identity.

In addition, the relocation of communities to the peripheries has often led to their exclusion from mainstream society. Peripheries are often seen as being outside of the city limits, and their residents are often viewed as being second-class citizens. This can make it difficult for people to access education, employment, and other opportunities.

The relocation of communities to new urban peripheries is a global phenomenon that has had a profound impact on the social and spatial landscape of cities. In Cairo, Egypt, the relocation of communities to the peripheries has been particularly pronounced, and has led to a number of challenges, including a sense of dislocation and alienation, a decline in quality of life, and tensions and conflicts between different groups.

These challenges are compounded by the politics of identity, which have made it difficult for people to develop a sense of shared identity and to access mainstream society. As a result, the relocation of communities to urban peripheries has become a major issue of social and political concern.

There are a number of things that can be done to address the challenges posed by space relocation and the politics of identity in global Cairo. These include:

Investing in infrastructure and services: Governments and other stakeholders should invest in infrastructure and services in peripheries to improve the quality of life for residents. This includes building new schools, hospitals, and libraries, as well as improving transportation and access to essential services.
Promoting social inclusion: Governments and other stakeholders should promote social inclusion by encouraging interaction between different groups and by providing opportunities for people to participate in civic and cultural activities. This can help to break down barriers and build bridges between different communities.
Addressing the politics of identity: Governments and other stakeholders should address the politics of identity by promoting tolerance and understanding between different groups. This includes educating people about the different cultures and religions that make up Cairo's diverse population, and by working to create a more inclusive and welcoming society.

By taking these steps, we can help to create a more just and equitable Cairo for all.

Remaking the Modern: Space, Relocation, and the Politics of Identity in a Global Cairo

by Farha Ghannam

5 out of 5