Seminar SoSe 2023
Dr. Hassan Elmouelhi, Prof. Anke Hagemann

Contemporary Arab Urbanism
Participation in Arab Public Space - between Conflicts and Prosperity

This seminar introduces the current urbanization trends and challenges of the MENA/ Arab region. The urbanisms of Arab countries have developed through different paths. Some countries still suffer from civil wars, others are struggling with political reforms. On the other hand, Gulf countries are booming with many urban mega projects, that are still controversial, creating a new identity accompanied by a diversification of economic resources. The seminar will discuss the geopolitical situation in different countries in the MENA/Arab region, its implications on urbanization processes, and different typologies of urban settlements, with a special focus on how participation is perceived and practiced within the urban governance framework and the political context of each country. Public space will be focused as a core element that represents the roles and relations of the state, the citizens and other stakeholders. This includes not only discussing cases from Tunesia, Sudan, Jordan, Iraq, Palestine and Egypt, but also some reflections and contributions from invited experts who will share their experiences from other Arab countries.

This seminar might be combined with workshops in the partner Arab countries, starting with Tunisia and Egypt, as a part of an international cooperation project funded by the DAAD; the results for the funding selection will be announced by end of March/April 2023.

Photo © Hassan Elmouelhi 2022

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