8.4 Cities in the Global South
4 min read•august 16, 2024
Cities in the Global South face unique challenges due to rapid urbanization and limited resources. These cities struggle with inadequate infrastructure, informal economies, and overcrowding, leading to the growth of and slums.
Managing urban growth in developing countries is complex, involving infrastructure, economic, and social challenges. Despite these issues, informal settlements play a vital role in providing affordable housing and economic opportunities for low-income residents and migrants.
Cities in the Global South vs North
Urban Characteristics and Infrastructure
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- Cities in the Global South exhibit higher population densities, more rapid growth rates, and larger informal economies compared to those in the Global North
- Urban infrastructure in Global South cities struggles to keep pace with population growth resulting in inadequate housing, transportation, and basic services
- Global North cities have more developed urban planning systems, stricter building regulations, and more comprehensive public services
- Spatial organization of Global South cities reflects colonial legacies and socioeconomic disparities with clear divisions between formal and informal settlements (Mumbai's Dharavi slum)
- Global South cities have younger populations and higher birth rates while Global North cities face challenges related to aging populations (Japan's shrinking workforce)
Economic and Demographic Differences
- Economic activities in Global South cities concentrate in the informal sector (street vendors, home-based businesses)
- Global North cities have more formalized and service-oriented economies (financial districts, tech hubs)
- Rural-to-urban migration drives rapid urbanization in the Global South fueled by economic opportunities and better
- Natural population growth within cities contributes to urban expansion particularly in regions with high birth rates
- Economic restructuring and shift from agricultural to industrial and service-based economies encourage urbanization in the Global South
- Climate change and environmental degradation in rural areas act as push factors driving people to seek better living conditions in urban centers
Urbanization in the Global South
Drivers of Rapid Urban Growth
- Government policies such as investment in urban infrastructure and establishment of special economic zones accelerate urbanization processes
- and concentration of foreign direct investment in urban areas attract domestic and international migrants to cities
- Improvements in transportation and communication technologies facilitate easier movement to and integration into urban areas
- Rural poverty and lack of economic opportunities in agricultural regions push people towards cities
- Urban areas offer better access to education and healthcare services attracting families seeking improved quality of life
Consequences of Accelerated Urbanization
- Rapid population growth outpaces development of adequate housing leading to proliferation of informal settlements and slums
- Insufficient urban infrastructure results in challenges related to water supply, sanitation, waste management, and electricity distribution
- Transportation systems struggle to accommodate increasing demand leading to traffic congestion, , and reduced urban mobility
- Environmental degradation including air and water pollution and loss of green spaces poses significant health risks to urban populations
- Social inequalities and spatial segregation lead to social tensions, crime, and reduced quality of life for marginalized urban residents
Managing Urban Growth in Developing Countries
Infrastructure and Planning Challenges
- Limited financial resources and institutional capacity hinder effective urban planning and implementation of strategies
- Rapid urbanization strains existing infrastructure requiring significant investments in upgrading and expansion
- Lack of comprehensive urban planning leads to uncontrolled sprawl and inefficient land use
- Inadequate public transportation systems result in heavy reliance on private vehicles exacerbating congestion and pollution
- Insufficient waste management and sanitation infrastructure pose serious public health risks (open sewers, improper waste disposal)
Economic and Social Challenges
- Informal economy while providing livelihoods for many presents challenges for tax collection, regulation, and urban economic development
- High unemployment rates particularly among youth contribute to social unrest and increased crime rates
- Lack of affordable housing options leads to the growth of informal settlements and overcrowding
- Inadequate education and healthcare facilities struggle to meet the needs of growing urban populations
- Social and economic inequalities create spatial segregation and limit opportunities for upward mobility
Informal Settlements in the Global South
Characteristics and Development
- Informal settlements provide affordable housing options for low-income urban residents who cannot access formal housing markets
- These settlements frequently develop on marginal or hazardous land exposing residents to environmental risks (flooding, landslides, industrial pollution)
- Informal settlements serve as entry points for rural-to-urban migrants offering social networks and economic opportunities within the informal economy
- Lack of formal recognition and tenure security in these settlements can lead to forced evictions and social instability
- Informal settlements challenge traditional urban planning paradigms and necessitate innovative approaches to upgrading and integration
Role in Urban Fabric and Upgrading Efforts
- Despite challenges informal settlements demonstrate remarkable resilience and social cohesion featuring vibrant community networks and grassroots organizations
- Upgrading of informal settlements has become a key focus of urban development strategies aiming to improve living conditions while preserving social and economic networks
- In-situ upgrading approaches prioritize infrastructure improvements and tenure security without displacing existing communities (Baan Mankong program in Thailand)
- Participatory planning processes involve community members in decision-making for settlement improvements enhancing sustainability and community ownership
- Integration of informal settlements into formal city planning requires addressing land tenure issues, improving infrastructure, and providing access to basic services
Key Terms to Review (18)
Access to services: Access to services refers to the availability and ability of individuals or communities to obtain essential resources and services such as healthcare, education, transportation, and sanitation. This concept is crucial in understanding the disparities in urban environments, especially in rapidly growing cities where infrastructure may not keep pace with population growth.
Air pollution: Air pollution refers to the presence of harmful substances in the atmosphere that can adversely affect human health and the environment. It arises from various sources, including industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and burning fossil fuels, and is a significant concern in many urban areas. The consequences of air pollution extend beyond health issues; it impacts climate, visibility, and even economic productivity.
David Harvey: David Harvey is a prominent geographer and social theorist known for his work on urban studies, spatial analysis, and the relationship between capitalism and geography. His theories emphasize how space and place are shaped by social, economic, and political processes, making his ideas essential for understanding issues related to urbanization and global cities.
Edward Soja: Edward Soja is a prominent American geographer and urban planner known for his contributions to the fields of urban studies, geography, and spatial theory. His work often emphasizes the relationship between space and social structures, particularly in the context of urban environments, making his ideas particularly relevant when analyzing cities in the Global South, where rapid urbanization and social change are prevalent.
Gentrification: Gentrification is the process in which urban neighborhoods undergo transformation through the influx of wealthier residents, leading to rising property values and often displacing lower-income residents. This phenomenon is often tied to urban renewal initiatives and can significantly reshape the cultural and social fabric of a community, affecting land use, economic dynamics, and housing availability.
Globalization: Globalization is the process by which businesses, cultures, and economies become interconnected and interdependent on a global scale. It involves the increasing movement of goods, services, information, and people across borders, leading to cultural exchange and economic integration. This phenomenon affects various aspects of life, from local economies to international relations and cultural identities.
Inequality: Inequality refers to the uneven distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges within a society, which often leads to disparities in wealth, health, and education. This concept is particularly evident in urban areas of developing countries, where stark contrasts exist between affluent neighborhoods and impoverished communities, influencing social dynamics and access to services.
Informal settlements: Informal settlements are unplanned and often illegal communities that arise in urban areas, typically characterized by substandard housing and a lack of basic services. These areas often develop due to rapid urbanization, where people migrate to cities in search of better opportunities but cannot afford formal housing. As a result, informal settlements can lead to challenges related to infrastructure, sanitation, and public services.
Infrastructure deficits: Infrastructure deficits refer to the gaps and inadequacies in essential facilities and services such as transportation, sanitation, energy, and telecommunications that are necessary for economic growth and quality of life. In many urban areas, especially in developing regions, these deficits can lead to significant challenges in public health, safety, and overall socio-economic development, impacting the livability of cities.
Megacities: Megacities are urban areas with a population of over 10 million people, characterized by their vast size, economic influence, and significant cultural diversity. These cities often emerge due to rapid urbanization and migration, resulting in high population density and complex social, economic, and environmental challenges. Their growth highlights the shifting patterns of population distribution, particularly in developing regions, and reflects broader trends in global urbanization.
Post-colonialism: Post-colonialism is an academic framework that analyzes the cultural, political, and economic legacies of colonialism and imperialism. This perspective examines how formerly colonized nations navigate their identities, governance, and societal structures after gaining independence, often grappling with the lingering effects of colonial rule.
Rural-urban migration: Rural-urban migration refers to the movement of people from countryside areas to urban centers, often in search of better economic opportunities, improved living standards, and access to services. This trend significantly influences population distribution and density as urban areas grow while rural regions face depopulation. It is a crucial factor in understanding demographic changes and the dynamics of cities, particularly in developing regions.
Smart growth: Smart growth is an urban planning and development approach that focuses on creating sustainable, livable, and economically viable communities by promoting efficient land use, transportation options, and environmental stewardship. It aims to balance development with the preservation of natural resources and community values, addressing the challenges posed by urbanization and rapid population growth.
Sustainable Development: Sustainable development is the practice of meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It emphasizes a balance between economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity, ensuring that resources are used responsibly and efficiently. This concept is crucial for addressing environmental hazards, managing resources in cities, and developing practices that support long-term resilience in various communities.
Urban heat islands: Urban heat islands are urban areas that experience significantly higher temperatures than their rural surroundings, primarily due to human activities and land use changes. This phenomenon occurs as natural landscapes are replaced with buildings, roads, and other infrastructure, leading to increased heat absorption and reduced vegetation. The effects of urban heat islands can exacerbate health problems, increase energy consumption, and contribute to climate change.
Urban poverty: Urban poverty refers to the state of living in inadequate conditions within cities, characterized by limited access to resources, services, and opportunities. This phenomenon often results from rapid urbanization, where cities expand faster than the ability to provide essential services, leading to overcrowded living conditions, high unemployment rates, and insufficient infrastructure. Urban poverty is particularly visible in informal settlements or slums where residents face social and economic marginalization.
Urban sprawl: Urban sprawl refers to the uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into the surrounding rural land, often resulting in low-density development and increased reliance on automobiles. This phenomenon is closely linked to population growth, changing demographics, and urbanization trends that impact cities' infrastructure and environmental sustainability.
Youth Bulge: A youth bulge refers to a significant increase in the proportion of young people within a population, often resulting from high birth rates combined with declining mortality rates. This demographic phenomenon can lead to unique social, economic, and political challenges, especially in regions where job opportunities are limited and political systems struggle to engage the youth. The effects of a youth bulge can be seen in various aspects of society, influencing migration patterns, economic development, and potential social unrest.