Work

The Political Potential of Urban Informality in the Global North: A Rancièrian Perspective

Year: 2022

Type: article

Abstract: In recent years, a growing number of scholars have highlighted the presence of urban informality in the Global North. Although we applaud this development, we deplore that this body of literature is characterized by analytical ambiguity and fragmented discussions. More specifically, the literature often reduces or repudiates the political potential of urban informality by (a) integrating it into the formal, (b) mobilizing it for policy purposes, and/or (c) designating it as a “policy problem.” In this article, we examine the existing literature and rethink the concept of urban informality by discussing it in relation to Jacques Rancière’s distinction between “police” and “politics.” This distinction enables us to highlight the political potential of urban informality in the Global North.

Source: Journal of Developing Societies

DOI: 10.1177/0169796x221089463

Authors: Niek van de Pas, David de Kort, Martijn Koster, Toon van Meijl

Institution: Radboud University Nijmegen

Language: English

Topic: Urban and Rural Development Challenges

Subfield: Urban Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650