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Space Relocation And The Politics Of Identity In Global Cairo

Michael Crichton

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

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Cairo is a city in a state of constant flux. Over the past few decades, the city has undergone rapid economic growth and urbanization, which has led to the displacement of many of its residents. This displacement has had a profound impact on the city's social and political landscape, and has given rise to new forms of identity politics.

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

by Farha Ghannam

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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In her book, Space Relocation And The Politics Of Identity In Global Cairo, Amira Osman explores the complex relationship between space, identity, and politics in the rapidly changing city of Cairo. Drawing on extensive research, the book examines how the displacement of Cairenes from their homes and neighborhoods has shaped their sense of belonging and identity. The book also explores the role of the state in shaping the urban landscape and the ways in which Cairenes have resisted and accommodated these changes.

Osman's book is a valuable resource for scholars and students of urban studies, sociology, and Middle Eastern studies. It is also a timely and important contribution to the growing body of literature on the politics of identity in a globalized world.

The Displacement of Cairenes

The displacement of Cairenes from their homes and neighborhoods is a complex and multifaceted process. It is driven by a number of factors, including:

Economic growth: The rapid economic growth that Cairo has experienced in recent years has led to a rise in land values. This has made it increasingly difficult for low-income residents to afford to live in the city center. As a result, many have been forced to move to informal settlements on the outskirts of the city.
Urbanization: The urbanization of Cairo has also contributed to the displacement of its residents. As the city has grown, it has encroached on rural areas, forcing many farmers and villagers to relocate. In addition, the construction of new roads and highways has often led to the demolition of homes and businesses.
Government policies: The Egyptian government has also played a role in the displacement of Cairenes. In recent years, the government has implemented a number of policies that have made it more difficult for low-income residents to live in the city center. These policies include the demolition of informal settlements and the privatization of public housing.

The displacement of Cairenes from their homes and neighborhoods has had a profound impact on their sense of belonging and identity. Many Cairenes feel that they have been forced to leave their homes and communities, and that they no longer have a place in the city. This sense of displacement has led to a rise in social unrest and political protest.

The Role of the State

The Egyptian state has played a complex and contradictory role in the displacement of Cairenes. On the one hand, the state has implemented policies that have made it more difficult for low-income residents to live in the city center. On the other hand, the state has also provided some assistance to displaced residents, such as housing subsidies and job training programs.

The state's role in the displacement of Cairenes is often seen as a reflection of the state's own identity crisis. The Egyptian state is a relatively young state, and it is still struggling to define its own identity and role in the world. This identity crisis is reflected in the state's urban policies, which often seem to be more concerned with creating a modern and cosmopolitan city than with the needs of its own citizens.

Resistance and Accommodation

Despite the challenges they face, Cairenes have not simply accepted their displacement. They have resisted and accommodated the changes that have taken place in their city in a number of ways.

One form of resistance has been through the formation of community organizations. These organizations provide a sense of community and support for displaced residents, and they also advocate for their rights. Another form of resistance has been through the arts. Cairenes have used art to express their experiences of displacement and to challenge the state's policies.

In addition to resistance, Cairenes have also accommodated the changes that have taken place in their city. They have found new ways to make a living, and they have adapted their traditions and customs to the new urban environment. Cairenes' ability to resist and accommodate the challenges they face is a testament to their resilience and their determination to build a better future for themselves and their children.

Space Relocation And The Politics Of Identity In Global Cairo is a valuable resource for scholars and students of urban studies, sociology, and Middle Eastern studies. It is also a timely and important contribution to the growing body of literature on the politics of identity in a globalized world.

Osman's book provides a nuanced and insightful analysis of the complex relationship between space, identity, and politics in Cairo. The book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the challenges facing cities in the developing world.

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

by Farha Ghannam

5 out of 5