Keynote for City Debates 2015, American University of Beirut: “The Dynamics of Neighborhood Transformation: Long Term Trends and Immediate Responses to Turmoil and Civil Unrest,” Dr. Mona Serageldin

Abstract

Dr. Mona Serageldin prepared the keynote presentation “The Dynamics of Neighborhood Transformation Long Term Trends and Immediate Responses to Turmoil and Civil Unrest” for the City Debates 2015 program of the American University of Beirut.

The Keynote speech and presentation by Dr. Serageldin examine the impact of spatial segregation and social exclusion on gentrification in the Mashreq countries of Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Palestine, and Jordan. Documents include presentation slides and transcript.

Excerpt

[Excerpt: Key Note text, Dr. Mona Serageldin, Page 1]

“Gentrification, within or outside the urban core, conjures images of forced displacement, eviction and marginalization of poorer segments of society. However, when discussing gentrification it is important to distinguish between spatial segregation and social exclusion and between diversity and social mixity. Each of these concepts involves a different perspective on urban space. Furthermore, except in cases of clearance and redevelopment, changes in the structure and morphology of urban areas, entail longer term processes which start slowly, accelerate and reach a tipping point. Taking into consideration the time frame often alters perspectives and viewpoints.”

“Social and economic change at the neighborhood level is an inherent component of urban growth. Over time, the regional context has shaped the drivers of transformation processes. Historically, ruling elites eager to display their power, wealth, and status built exclusive precincts outside the urbanized area inhabited by the commoners, a diverse population with a wide range of economic means and social standing including different ethnicities and religions. Later, the desire of colonial expatriate communities to replicate their own living environment introduced a trend towards exclusive suburban extensions. The regulatory controls included in the charters and by laws of the companies which developed these suburbs and the boards running the select amenities tended to collapse from the mid-1960s on as the colonial era came to an end and massive capital infusion in urban real estate altered the dynamics of growth.”

“In labor sending countries, remittance-driven urbanization, formal and informal, sustained by high rates of household formation and pervasive housing shortages, sent land values skyrocketing beyond the affordability of many among the middle classes. It accelerated the proliferation and subsequent densification of informal settlements and sharpened class differentiation within them.”

See related I2UD projects below

Project Year:	2015
Project Type:	Presentation
Geographic Regions:	Beirut, Lebanon (Program Location) / Egypt / Syria / Lebanon / Iraq / Palestine / Jordan
Reports:	City Debates 2015: (Keynote Presentation, Dr. Mona Serageldin, March 2015) City Debates 2015: (Keynote Text, Dr. Mona Serageldin, March 2015)
Authors:	^{Mona Serageldin; Barbara Summers;}
Sponsors:	^{American University of Beirut}
Categories:	Informal Settlements and Urban Upgrading

ID:	2015_03_001

Related I2UD Projects

Related by – MENA International Programs

“World Migration Report,” Background Papers on Displacement, Migration and Resettlement in MENA (Middle East and North Africa), International Organization for Migration, 2014

“The Development and Morphology of Informal Housing,” Research Paper, Published with Aga Khan Award for Architecture Seminar Proceedings, Dr. Mona Serageldin, 1988.

Design Studio 1984: “The Revitalization of a Traditional Urban Quarter” for the Medieval Darb al Ahmar District, Cairo, Egypt, Seminar Curriculum

“Best Practices and Local Leadership Programme,” Review of International Urban Development Projects, for the United Nations Centre for Human Settlements (UN-Habitat), 1995

Habitat III Regional Report for the Arab Region: Papers on “Inclusive cities,” “Migration and Refugees in Urban Areas,” and “Land Structure, Process, and Outcome,” for UN-Habitat (ROAS) and United Nations (ESCWA), 2015-2016

World Bank MNA Urban Action Plan – Policy and Strategy Papers: “The Evolving Regional Urban Agenda: Key Challenges and Opportunities,” & “From Spring to Renaissance: Repositioning the Arab Cities,” 2013

“Comprehensive Plan for Makkah, Madinah and Mashaer,” Urban Development Strategy for Ancient Holy Sites in Saudi Arabia, 2009

State of Arab Cities 2012 UN-Habitat Report & Conference – “Challenges of Urban Transition: Municipal Management and Urban Development Conference For Sustainability in Arab States,” Kuwait, May 2012

“Basic Services for an Urbanizing World,” Third Global Report on Local Democracy and Decentralization (GOLD III, UCLG). Chapter on “Middle East and West Asia” by Mona Serageldin, I2UD, 2013

UN-HABITAT Spatial Regional Plan and Assessment for the Kurdistan-Iraq Region Housing Program, 2014

Keynote for City Debates 2015, American University of Beirut: “The Dynamics of Neighborhood Transformation: Long Term Trends and Immediate Responses to Turmoil and Civil Unrest,” Dr. Mona Serageldin

“Inclusive Cities and Access to Land, Housing, and Services in Developing Countries,” Urban Development Series: Knowledge Papers, February 2016, No. 22. World Bank’s Social, Urban, Rural & Resilience Global Practice, 2016

Related by – Migration

“World Migration Report,” Background Papers on Displacement, Migration and Resettlement in MENA (Middle East and North Africa), International Organization for Migration, 2014

“Migration, Remittances and Housing in Sub-Saharan Africa,” Study on Senegal, Kenya, and South Africa, with the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), 2007-2008

“Migration, Remittances and the Empowerment of Women in Central America and the Andean Region,” for PROMESHA, Lund University, 2007-2008

“Habitat III Regional Report for the Arab Region,” for UN-Habitat (ROAS) and United Nations (ESCWA), 2015-2016

“National Urban Strategy for Governorates in Iraq,” Development Strategy for Phase II of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Iraq Ministry of Planning Local Area Development Programme (LADP II), 2014-2018

“National Urban Policies in Arab States,” Regional Assessment and Case Studies on NUPs in Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Saudi Arabia and Sudan, 2014

UN-HABITAT Spatial Regional Plan and Assessment for the Kurdistan-Iraq Region Housing Program, 2014

“Inclusive Cities and Access to Land, Housing, and Services in Developing Countries,” Urban Development Series: Knowledge Papers, February 2016, No. 22. World Bank’s Social, Urban, Rural & Resilience Global Practice, 2016

“Basic Services for an Urbanizing World,” Third Global Report on Local Democracy and Decentralization (GOLD III, UCLG). Chapter on “Middle East and West Asia” by Mona Serageldin, I2UD, 2013

World Bank MNA Urban Action Plan – Policy and Strategy Papers: “The Evolving Regional Urban Agenda: Key Challenges and Opportunities,” & “From Spring to Renaissance: Repositioning the Arab Cities,” 2013

“GCC Regional Spatial Strategy – Elements and Considerations,” Urban Development Plan, UN-Habitat Gulf States Regional Office Workshops, 2013

State of Arab Cities 2012 UN-Habitat Report & Conference – “Challenges of Urban Transition: Municipal Management and Urban Development Conference For Sustainability in Arab States,” Kuwait, May 2012

“Comprehensive Plan for Makkah, Madinah and Mashaer,” Urban Development Strategy for Ancient Holy Sites in Saudi Arabia, 2009

Executive Training Course 2006: “Strategic Planning for Sustainable Infrastructure Development,” Workshop Curriculum with Case Studies, Pretoria, South Africa, 2006

“Development Corridors and Urban Development Strategies” and “Slum Improvement Strategies and Social Inclusion,” Presentations by Dr. Mona Serageldin, 11th United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, São Paulo, Brazil, 2004

“Migratory Flows, Poverty and Social Inclusion in Latin America,” Research Report by Dr. Mona Serageldin with Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA), 2004

“Community-Based Urbanization and Favelas Rehabilitation Processes,” Case Study in Academy Editions, “The Architecture of Empowerment: People, Shelter and Livable Cities,” for Fortaleza, Brazil, 1997

“Review of Ongoing USAID Shelter Sector Activities in Morocco,” Report by Dr. Mona Serageldin with ICMA, TSS Inc. for USAID/Morocco Office of Housing and Urban Programs, 1992-1998

Design Studio 1989: “Rabat’s Urban Fringe,” Urbanization Analysis of Rabat, Morocco – Seminar Curriculum

Design Studio 1988: “Urban Infrastructure Planning and Programing in Developing Countries,” Chapters 1-7, Seminar Curriculum

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Galleries 6-7 – Egypt: Cairo and Helwan, 1986, 1990

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October 2012April 2025

“Climate Change Adaptation and Resiliency Framework,” Development Strategy for Cartagena, Colombia and Condega, Nicaragua, 2012

Abstract

In 2012, I2UD assisted the municipalities of Cartagena, Colombia and Condega, Nicaragua to develop a “Climate Change Adaptation and Resiliency” urban planning framework. The projects provided context for research on physical and social climate change vulnerabilities in informal settlements in vulnerable areas of Colombia and Nicaragua.

In partnership with the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy, the I2UD study team addressed changes in land policies to foster adaptation measures and facilitate their implementation, assess social vulnerabilities and make institutional considerations. Lack of enforcement for housing or service regulations, poor quality construction, and environmental degradation increase vulnerabilities to climate change in both regions. Although the two municipalities had undertaken risk assessments, neither had specifically addressed the special vulnerabilities in informal settlement areas to floods and landslides resulting from climate change.

Documents include the final report from January 2014, followed by earlier concept papers, research presentations, report elements on Cartagena and Condega, and a curriculum outline. A final report is available in Spanish.

Excerpt

[Excerpt: Final Report, “Increasing the Resilience of Informal Settlements to Climate Change in Two Latin American Cities: Condega and Cartagena.” I2UD, January 2014.]

ABSTRACT
“The conceptual framework for the research is based on the documentation of climate change effects and adaptation approaches by the International Panel on Climate Change but it focuses on risks in informal and lower-income settlements. It adapts basic guidelines that apply fundamental principles found in current climate and urban planning literature to these settlements. Despite IPCC warnings, many cities in the developing world are taking a reactive approach to climate change, only addressing impacts when they become emergencies. A strategic approach fostering adaptation is needed to address the multiple dimensions of risk faced by urban settlements, particularly lower-income communities, and build their resilience. Underlying causes of vulnerability include the lack of developable, serviced urban land, unplanned urbanization and limited public resources, all of which arise from ineffective management of land as a valuable asset, a creator of development potential and a generator of public revenues.”

“Two case studies document and evaluate the strategies adopted by the cities of Condega, Nicaragua and Cartagena, Colombia to reduce climate change related risks in informal and lower-income settlements, and assess remaining sources of risk. The proposed land-based policies, instruments, and projects – some conventional and some more innovative – are intended to better prepare the communities through both remedial and preventive adaptation measures.”

Project Year:	2012
Project Type:	Risk Assessment and Local Development Strategy
Geographic Regions:	Cartagena, Colombia / Condega, Nicaragua
Reports:	Climate Change Adaptation and Resiliency Framework: (Final Report, January 2014) — Climate Change Adaptation and Resiliency Framework: (Concept Paper) Climate Change Adaptation and Resiliency Framework: World Urban Forum (Presentation, 2014) Climate Change Adaptation and Resiliency Framework: (Presentation Text) Climate Change Adaptation and Resiliency Framework: Cartagena (Presentation) Climate Change Adaptation and Resiliency Framework: Condega (Presentation) Climate Change Adaptation and Resiliency Framework: (Curriculum Outline) Climate Change Adaptation and Resiliency Framework: (Final Report, Spanish, January 2014)
Authors:	^{Mona Serageldin; Warren Hagist; Carolina Morgan; Alejandra Mortarini; Mauricio Rodriguez Gomez; Luis Sevilla Fajardo; Alfredo Stein;}
Sponsors:	^{Lincoln Institute of Land Policy}
Categories:	Climate Change and Resilience Building

ID:	2012_10_001

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November 2007April 2025

Executive Education Program 2007: “Strategic Planning for Sustainable Human Settlements,” Pretoria, South Africa, Executive Training Programs, 2007

Abstract

In 2007, the Institute for International Urban Development (I2UD) organized a 4-day Executive Training Program workshop, “Strategic Planning for Sustainable Human Settlements,” held in Pretoria, South Africa.

Topics included: 1) Globalization and local development; 2) Meeting the challenge of development in Africa; 3) Promoting sustainability in human settlements; 4) Building sustainability in housing projects; 5) Local revenue generation; 6) Financing local capital improvements; 7) Partnerships for local development; and 8) Indicators of local development.

Documents feature a workshop schedule, followed by detailed case studies on development projects around the globe:

“Development Corridors and Urban Development Strategies” — Mona Serageldin, Presented at UNCTAD XI-URBIS, São Paulo, Brazil, 2004. Printed in Cities: Engines of Economic Development, UN-Habitat: Kenya, 2005

“Improve Your Neighborhood Program” — Cuenca, Ecuador

“SEWAs Participation in Infrastructure Improvement Initiatives in Urban Areas” — Ahmedabad, India

“Municipal Fund for Public Housing” — Belo Horizonte, Brazil

“Economic Revitalization and Integrated Development” — Middledrift, Eastern Cape, South Africa

“Development of Harbor Point” — Boston, MA, USA

See related I2UD projects below

Project Year:	2007
Project Type:	ITP; Education
Geographic Regions:	Pretoria, South Africa
Reports:	Executive Training Course 2007: (Draft Workshop Schedule) Executive Training Course 2007: “Development Corridors and Urban Development Strategies” Executive Training Course 2007: “Improve Your Neighborhood Program,” Cuenca, Ecuador Executive Training Course 2007: “Municipal Fund for Public Housing,” Belo Horizonte, Brazil Executive Training Course 2007: “Development of Harbor Point” Executive Training Course 2007: “Economic Revitalization and Integrated Development,” Middledrift, Eastern Cape, South Africa Executive Training Course 2007: “SEWAs Participation in Infrastructure Improvement Initiatives in Urban Areas,” Ahmedabad, India Executive Training Course 2007: Local Development Strategies Diagrams
Authors:	^{Mona Serageldin;}
Sponsors:	^{Institute for International Urban Development (I2UD)}
Categories:	^{International Education Program; Executive Training Program; Education;}

ID:	2007_11_001

Related I2UD Projects

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January 2006April 2025

“Qassioun Urban Development Strategy and Improvement Plan,” Technical Framework for Damascus, Syria, 2006-2008

Abstract

A 2006 project consisted of an urban development strategy and improvement plan for the informal settlement of Qassioun in the City of Damascus, Syria. I2UD’s development strategy provided a coherent framework for the development of an integrated plan for the whole site and more detailed plans for each of its constituent parts.

An informal urbanized area housing a population of 200,000 in 2006, Qassioun extended over 6 kilometers in the mountain range overlooking Damascus’ civic and business center. The settlement was characterized by steep slopes, dense settlement patterns and geotechnical and seismic risks. The development plan included the protection of a historic area, two regularized sub-districts, the informal settlement, facilities on the undeveloped high plateau, and a relocation site for families living in zones with high seismic risks.

Project Year:	2006-2008
Project Type:	Technical Development Strategy
Geographic Regions:	Damascus, Syria
Reports:	Qassioun Urban Development Strategy and Improvement Plan: (Full Report, October 2008)
Authors:	^{Mona Serageldin; Christa Lee-Chuvala; Carolina Morgan; Alejandra Mortarini; Daniel Tsai;}
Sponsors:	^{European Union Syria Municipal Administration Modernization (MAM) Programme}
Categories:	Reconciliation and Development

ID:	2006_00_007

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August 2000April 2025

“Decentralization and Urban Infrastructure Management Capacity,” Research Paper for UN-Habitat’s Third Global Report on Human Settlements, 2000

A CUDS research paper from 2000 provided an overview of decentralization and infrastructure policy in the USA since the 1990. The study stressed the expanding scope for private sector involvement and the growing role of non-governmental organizations and civil society in the delivery of infrastructure services for urban slums – properly termed informal settlements. The paper served as a background paper for UN-Habitat’s Third Global Report on Human Settlements.

[Excerpt: Background Paper, August 2000]

1.0 Overview: This background paper is based on an extensive review of infrastructure initiatives implemented since the early 1990s in different economic, social and cultural settings. Recent trends are assessed and creative approaches presented. In each case, the challenges faced and the context within which infrastructure problems have to be addressed determined the range of options and the choice of strategies. The remarkable results achieved by Best Practices are highlighted with a special focus on the ingredients underlying their success.”

[Excerpt: Table of Contents, Background Paper, August 2000, p. 2 of 31]

Project Year:	2000
Project Type:	Research Paper
Geographic Regions:	Global / None Specified
Reports:	Decentralization and Urban Infrastructure Management Capacity: (Background Paper, August 2000)
Authors:	^{Suzanne Kim; Mona Serageldin; Sameh Wahba}
Sponsors:	UN-Habitat
Categories:	Informal Settlements and Urban Upgrading

ID:	2000_08_003

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October 1999April 2025

Executive Training Program 1999: Seminar on “Urban Planning and Management” for Executive Officials from Nouadhibou & Nouakchott, Mauritania, 1999

Abstract

The Center for Urban Development Studies (CUDS) at the Harvard Graduate School of Design hosted a seminar on “Urban Planning and Management” for a delegation of senior officials from Mauritania, on October 4-14, 1999, held in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The seminar was organized in response to a request from the Agence Mauritanienne d’Exécution des Travaux d’Intérêt Public pour l’Emploi (AMEXTIPE), and led to a formal consultation project by CUDS on recommendations for urban development in October 2000.

In the late 1990s, decentralization initiatives in Mauritania shifted central and local relationships and created new responsibilities for municipalities. Impacted cities under survey included Nouadhibou and Nouakchott: Nouadhibou is the second largest city in Mauritania and serves as a major commercial centre. Nouakchott is the capital and largest city of Mauritania, it also serves as the administrative and economic center of Mauritania. Urban issues facing local authorities included increasing urban poverty, demand for urban land, uncontrolled urban development, and underserved communities.

Note: AMEXTIPE was founded in 1992 under the initiative of the Government of Mauritania and the World Bank as a not-for-profit agency authorized to undertake the implementation of development projects.

Documents are primarily in French, and include two preliminary reports on Nouadhibou and Nouakchott from 1995. A seminar program outline is in English, and a final report for the 1999 seminar. Also included are copies of the eventual CUDS reports from October 2000. See “Mauritanian National Urban Development Strategy” from 2000 for full project documentation.

See related I2UD projects below

Project Year:	1999
Project Type:	ITP; Education
Geographic Regions:	Nouadhibou and Nouakchott, Mauritania
Reports:	Seminar, Mauritania (Seminar Report, French, October 1999) Seminar, Mauritania: (Program Outline, October 1999) Seminar, Mauritania: (Final Report, French, October 1999) Seminar, Mauritania: (Final Report, October 2000) Seminar, Mauritania: (Final Report, 17 October 2000) Seminar on Urban Planning and Management, Mauritania: Sommaire des Resultats des Etudes (November 2000) Seminar, Mauritania: Guide Pratique Nouadhibou (French, 1995) Seminar, Mauritania: Inventaire Continu Nouakchott (French, 1995)
Authors:	^{François Vigier (Team Leader); Mona Serageldin; Samir Abdulac; James Kostaras; Sameh Wahba;}
Sponsors:	^{World Bank; République Islamique de Mauritanie; AMEXTIPE; Projet d’Appui à la Décentralisation des Infrastructures Urbaines;}
Categories:	International Education Program; Executive Training Program; Education;

ID:	1999_10_001

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A History of ITP and IEP Seminars

The International Training Programs (ITP) began in 1982, as 2-4 week long summer seminars held by the Unit for Housing and Urbanization (Harvard University) in Cambridge, MA. ITP curriculums were designed to strengthen the decision-making skills of senior professionals in public and private agencies responsible for urban development.

The I2UD Digital Library holds curriculum materials for ITPs from 1988, 1991, 1994, 1995, 1997 and 1998:

The tradition of ITPs continued after 2000, when CUDS (a re-organization of the Unit) continued training seminars as “International Education Programs” (IEP) from 2000-2004:

Programs included inter-linked modules, lectures, case studies, interactive computer simulation models, site visits to urban projects, discussion groups and networking with professional counterparts from international metropolitan regions. Sessions had a modular format and structured team teaching, taught by a team of senior faculty and guest lecturers. Programs ended with a synthesis presented through a project evaluation exercise. Participants used case projects to examine strategies from the viewpoint of both public and private partners — to assess the feasibility and potential impacts of policies and projects on the community and the city. Presentations by guest speakers representing U.S. and international agencies, NGOs, and community groups were also integrated within the pedagogic framework of each module.

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January 1997April 2025

ITP 1997: “South Boston Metropolitan Area Community Housing,” Case Studies from Boston, Massachusetts, International Training Programs, 1997

Abstract

Documents represent curriculum components from the 1997 ITP, primarily case studies on community housing projects around the South Boston area including:

– The Engleston Jackson Strategy
– Wharf Three
– Tower Hamlets Housing Action Trust
– The Massachusetts Third Harbor Tunnel Project
– The South Station Joint Development Project
– The Massachusetts Port Authority Project, and
– The Urban Development Policy in Contrats de Ville, France

Additional documents are resource materials for job creation and economic growth, micro-business models, an overview of Boston, and an outline of faculty, guest lecturers and speakers.

See related I2UD projects below

Project Year:	1997
Project Type:	ITP; Education
Geographic Regions:	^{Boston, Massachusetts, USA (South Boston, Seaport, Waterfront, Rowes Wharf, South Station, and South End) / Tower Hamlets, London, UK / France}
Reports:	ITP 1997: South Boston Community Housing 1996 to 2000 Strategic Plan Report (Case Study) ITP 1997: Engleston Jackson Strategy (Case Study, May 1997) ITP 1997: Wharf Three (Case Study) ITP 1997: Tower Hamlets Housing Action Trust (Case Study) ITP 1997: Massachusetts Third Harbor Tunnel Project (Case Study) ITP 1997: The South Station Joint Development Project, Boston (Case Study) ITP 1997: South End Neighborhood Housing Initiative (SENHI), Boston (Case Study) ITP 1997: Massachusetts Port Authority, Boston (Case Study) ITP 1997: Urban Development Policy in France, Contrats de Ville (Case Study) ITP 1997: Contrats de Ville (Resources) ITP 1997: A Statewide Strategy for Job Creation and Economic Growth (Resources) ITP 1997: Working Capital Metro Boston Proposal for a High Impact Model (Resources) ITP 1997: Micro Businesses Create Jobs (Resources) ITP 1997: Faculty, Staff, Guest Lecturers, and Guest Speakers (Resources) ITP 1997: Boston Overview (Resources)
Authors:	^{François Vigier; Mona Serageldin; Jerold Kayden; John DriscoII; David Jones; Judith Grant;} ^{Pat Cusick (Executive Director, South End Neighborhood Action Plan SNAP); Richard Dimino (Chief Executive Director, Artery Business Committee); Linda Mogelli Haar, (Director of Planning and Zoning, Boston Redevelopment Authority); Richard Henderson, (Associate Director of Port Planning and Development, Massachusetts Port Authority); James Kostaras, (Senior Architect/Planner, Boston Redevelopment Authority);}
Sponsors:	^{Unit for Housing and Urbanization}
Categories:	International Training Program; Education;

ID:	1997_00_002

Related I2UD Projects

A History of ITP and IEP Seminars

The I2UD Digital Library holds curriculum materials for ITPs from 1988, 1991, 1994, 1995, 1997 and 1998:

The tradition of ITPs continued after 2000, when CUDS (a re-organization of the Unit) continued training seminars as “International Education Programs” (IEP) from 2000-2004:

Related by – Work in Boston, Massachusetts

ITP 1994: “Revitalization in Older Urban Spaces,” Upham’s Corner, Dorchester, Boston, South Boston, and New Haven (US); Montpellier (France); and Cork (Ireland) with Case Studies, International Education Programs, 1994

Reuse Plans for Boston’s Navy Yards and Military Bases: “Balanced Growth Reuse Strategies for Military Base Conversions,” Boston, USA, 1993-1996

City of Boston’s “Neighborhood Partnership Initiative” & “Main Street Program,” Urban Revitalization for Roslindale and West Roxbury, Boston, United States, 1997

ITP 1997: “South Boston Metropolitan Area Community Housing,” Case Studies from Boston, Massachusetts, International Training Programs, 1997

IEP August 2000: “Boston, Massachusetts: Strategic Plans and Community Participation,” International Education Programs, 2000

Seminar on “Partnerships and Urban Development in Older Neighborhoods in Paris and Boston,” with Centre de Recherches sur l’Habitat (CRH), April 2004

ITP 1982-2000: Survey of Modules for International Training Program Seminars

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January 1996April 2025

Design Studio 1996: “Strategic Urban Redevelopment in a Transitional Economy in Gdansk, Poland,” Seminar Curriculum

Abstract

The Design Studio from Spring 1996, “Strategic Urban Redevelopment in Gdansk, Poland” was led by Professors Mona Serageldin and David Neilson. The Studio examined urban planning, housing, and development in Poland, economic policies and conditions in the Gdańsk Province, and basic construction costs and building typologies in Gdańsk.

Documents include a detailed Studio overview with course schedule and full report, the full report “Urban Regeneration and Housing in a Transitional Economy: Gdansk, Poland,” and a case study summary, “A Foreign Investor’s Perspective On Strategic Planning And Urban Development In Poland.”

See related I2UD projects below

Project Year:	1996
Project Type:	Urban Design Studio
Geographic Regions:	Gdańsk, Poland
Reports:	1996 Design Studio: Strategic Urban Redevelopment in Gdansk, Poland 1996 Design Studio: Urban Regeneration and Housing in a Transitional Economy in Gdansk, Poland 1996 Design Studio: Gdansk, Poland, A Foreign Investors Perspective (Case Study)
Authors:	^{Mona Serageldin; Boguslaw Rutecki; David Neilson; Dariusz Knowski; Janne Corneil; Robert Lach; Boguslaw Trondowski; Anna Zietek;}
Sponsors:	^{The Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture at Harvard University;}
Categories:	Design Studios; Education;

ID:	1996_01_001

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Related by – Design Studio Seminars, 1981-2003

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March 1995April 2025

“Community Based Credit for Housing, Infrastructure, and Microenterprises,” Micro-Finance Housing Shortage Study for Quito, Ecuador, 1995

Abstract

In 1995, the Unit for Housing and Urban Development (HU-GSD) researched a mico-finance study on housing shortages in Quito, Ecuador to assess the impact of USAID’s Regional Housing and Urban Development Office for South America (RHUDO/SA) Ecuadorian Credit Program.

The Unit’s research presented solutions for housing shortages in Quito, Ecuador. The study discusses mechanisms for the extension of credit to lower income households through community based credit institutions, including productive housing loans, micro-enterprise loans, infrastructure provisions, loan refinancing to solve housing shortages in Quito.

Documents are an Executive Summary, and the Main Report (1995). Supporting documents include a Microenterprise Component from January 1995, A Market report by Thomas J. O’Malley “Ecuador’s Secondary Market – Findings Possibilities and Recommendations,” and a Summary memo titled “Reaching the Bulk of the Housing Problem With Loans – Gustavo Riofrío to Mona Serageldin.”

Excerpt

[Excerpt: Executive Summary]

“The study reviewed the structure and operations of various institutions involved in housing in Ecuador. The strategic objective was the development of micro finance instruments offering lower income households credit for housing and housing related finance on terms that are affordable, convenient and responsive to their needs.

The purpose of the study was to: 1) Assess the RHUDO’s current credit program as it relates to efficient urban improvement; 2) Assess the feasibility of expanding the Program into the areas of productive housing loans, micro enterprise loans, and infrastructure provision as well as the possibility of refinancing these loans.

Microenterprise Development: The study recommends advocating the concept of a “productive house” used as shelter and as income generator as an integral component of the self improvement strategies of lower income families. It allows them to upgrade their economic conditions as well as their living environment. Home based income generating activities are particularly important in helping women address some of their financial needs. For the working poor, income generation is an integral part of housing development. Investing in the house helps establish and expand home based micro-enterprises. Building on this concept the study focuses of the following components:

– Linking micro-enterprise and home improvement finance through the credit unions.
– Utilizing the same credit channels to lend directly for housing and micro-enterprise development.
– Refinancing portfolios of productive housing loans in order to leverage capital resources.

See related I2UD projects below

Project Year:	1995
Project Type:	Research Paper
Geographic Regions:	Quito, Ecuador
Reports:	Quito, Ecuador: (Executive Summary) Quito, Ecuador: (Main Report, May 1995) Quito, Ecuador: Microenterprise Component (Report, January 1995) Quito, Ecuador: “Ecuador’s Secondary Market – Findings Possibilities and Recommendations,” Thomas J. O’Mailey, Report) Quito, Ecuador: Reaching Bulk of Housing Problem with Loans (Gustavo Riofrio to Mona Serageldin, Summary)
Authors:	^{Mona Serageldin; David C. Jones; Sherif Lotfi; David Neilson; Thomas O’Malley; Gustavo Riofrio; Kimberley Wilson}
Sponsors:	^{USAID Regional Housing and Urban Development Office; Regional Housing and Urban Development Office for South America (RHUDO/SA) Ecuadorian Credit Program.}
Categories:	Urban Finance

ID:	1995_03_003

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Related I2UD Photography Galleries

Gallery 16 – Venecuela: Caracas, 1989

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July 1994April 2025

ITP 1994: “Revitalization in Older Urban Spaces,” Upham’s Corner, Dorchester, Boston, South Boston, and New Haven (US); Montpellier (France); and Cork (Ireland) with Case Studies, International Education Programs, 1994

Abstract

Curriculum components from the 1994 ITP, “Revitalization of Older Urban Spaces,” including case studies for developments in Science Park, in New Haven, Connecticut, Dorchester Bay Enterprise Park, Cork’s Historic Center, Montpellier’s Eurocite Technopolis, the Boston Megaplex, South Boston’s Electric Vehicle Manufacturing Facility and the Upham’s Corner Commercial Revitalization Projects.

See related I2UD projects below

Project Year:	1994
Project Type:	ITP; Education
Geographic Regions:	^{Boston, Massachusetts, US (South Boston and Upham’s Corner, Dorchester) / New Haven, Connecticut, US / Cork, Ireland / Montpellier, France}
Reports:	ITP 1994: Science Park (New Haven, CT, USA Case Study) ITP 1994: Overview for Science Park (New Haven, CT, USA, Case Study) ITP 1994: Cork Regeneration of the Historic Center (Ireland, Case Study) ITP 1994: Dorchester Bay Enterprise Park (Boston, MA, USA, Case Study) ITP 1994: Dorchester Bay Economic Development Corporation (Boston, MA, USA Case Study) ITP 1994: Montpellier Eurocite and National Economic and Urban Development Policy (France, Case Study) ITP 1994: Montpellier Eurocite The Technopolis (France, Case Study) ITP 1994: Montpellier Technopolis (France, Charts)
Authors:	^{Barry Shaw; David Knowles; Bob Haas;}
Sponsors:	^{Unit for Housing and Urbanization of the Harvard University Graduate School of Design}
Categories:	International Training Program; Education;

ID:	1994_07_001

Related I2UD Projects

A History of ITP and IEP Seminars

The I2UD Digital Library holds curriculum materials for ITPs from 1988, 1991, 1994, 1995, 1997 and 1998:

The tradition of ITPs continued after 2000, when CUDS (a re-organization of the Unit) continued training seminars as “International Education Programs” (IEP) from 2000-2004:

Related by – City or Community Case Studies

“Planning for Climate Adaptation Program” for Four Dominican Republic Municipalities: Santo Domingo National District, Santiago de los Caballeros, San Pedro de Macoris, and Las Terrenas, 2015

“National Urban Policies in Arab States,” Regional Assessment and Case Studies on NUPs in Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Saudi Arabia and Sudan, 2014

“Arusha Urbanization Strategy and Urban Development Plan,” Development Strategy for Arusha Municipality, Tanzania, 2009-2012

ICLRD: Urban Reconciliation Case Studies for Public Housing Estates in Ireland and Northern Ireland, with Study Profile on the Basel Metropolitan Area, 2010-2012

Executive Training Course 2006: “Strategic Planning for Sustainable Infrastructure Development,” Workshop Curriculum with Case Studies, Pretoria, South Africa, 2006

IEP 2003: “Infrastructure and Partnerships for Local Economic Development” in Pretoria and Bloemfontein, South Africa, International Education Programs, 2003

IEP 2002: “Strategic Planning for Local Development & Urban Revitalization,” Program Overview, International Education Programs, 2002

Workshops on “Strategic Planning and Management of Municipal Infrastructure Programs,” from Review of Grant-Funded MIPs in South Africa, May-June 1999

“Housing Microfinance Initiatives,” Case Study for USAID Microenterprise Best Practices Initiative, 1999-2000

ITP 1998: “The Role of Public/Private Partnerships in Urban Improvements,” with Case Studies on Kreuzberg, Berlin (Germany), GIS Mapping on Cape Cod (US) and the Maarouf Quarter of Cairo (Egypt), 1998

“City of Szczecin Capital Improvement Program,” Case Studies for Technical Assistance Program, Szczecin, Poland, 1996

ITP 1994: “Revitalization in Older Urban Spaces,” Upham’s Corner, Dorchester, Boston, South Boston, and New Haven (US); Montpellier (France); and Cork (Ireland) with Case Studies, International Education Programs, 1994

“Introduction to Local Finances,” Teaching Monographs and Case Studies on Finance Management, by Visiting Lecturer David C. Jones, 1994-1999

Related by – Work in Boston, Massachusetts

ITP 1982-2000: Survey of Modules for International Training Program Seminars

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July 1989April 2025

“Environmental Health Factors in Housing,” Design Study for the Rapid Urbanization of Low-Income Settlements in Urban-Fringe Districts, 1989

Abstract

“Environmental Health Factors in Housing” was a study from 1989 by the Unit for Housing and Urbanization — addressing the link between rapid urbanization and rapid densification of low-income housing settlements in economically struggling cities — called the “Third World” in 1980s-era economic terminology.

The report addressed the environmental hazards, poverty, disease and slum housing conditions emerging in areas around housing developments built recently but lacking adequate infrastructure for socio-economic longevity and community health. The Unit presented their aim to form a model for affordable, practical design criteria that paid attention to both economic and social factors for urban-fringe districts.

Documents include working reports from April, July and August 1989, a Study Summary, and a Research Strategy and Methodological Guidelines by Rafique H. Keshavjee (Ph.D. Orville Solon, Ph.D.) from December 1989.

Excerpt

[Excerpt: Study Summary, I. Overview, July 1989, p. 2]

“Most urban settlements in lower-income countries, whether they are new settlements built by the government, established informal communities or new squatter areas, are subject to tremendous pressures of population growth and economic and physical change. The greater the pressure for development, the more rapid the transformations brought about by this maturation process. This continuous growth and change can rapidly transform their original physical forms beyond recognition and alter the community’s social and economic functions. The process is further intensified when governments introduce improvements such as water, sewerage, basic services and housing. For example, carefully planned housing projects designed according to standards which assume a segregation of commercial and residential activities will find that, overtime, these activities will occur simultaneously in the same area.

The need of low-income families to generate additional income and living space results in the construction of new rooms and apartments which were often not anticipated in the original design of the site or its infrastructure. In such cities as Karachi, Dhakka and Cairo, where housing shortages are high, additions to structures can reach over six stories in less than five years, raising densities from under 400 to over 1,000 persons per hectare. The most dynamic aspect of transformation within a community affects housing, small scale commercial establishments and the disappearance or overuse of communal open
spaces.”

…..

[Excerpt: Study Summary, III. STUDY DESIGN, July 1989, p. 7]

“The purpose of the Study is to develop practical, affordable design criteria which are responsive to the social and economic dynamics of low-income settlements. It will focus on aspects of housing and community design which have received little attention in the past. Most notably, the long-term impact of rapid growth in low-income urban settlements and the effect of the resulting transformation of housing and environmental conditions on the health of the residents. The definition of this linkage and the development of appropriate environmental design criteria, will allow decision makers to choose physical improvements that will maintain their positive impacts as a community matures.“

Project Year:	1989
Project Type:	Environmental Climate Research Paper
Geographic Regions:	Global / None Specified
Reports:	Environmental Health Factors in Housing: (April 1989) Environmental Health Factors in Housing: (August 1989) Environmental Health Factors in Housing: (July 1989) Environmental Health Factors in Housing: (Summary, July 1989) Environmental Health Factors in Housing: Research Strategy and Methodological Guidelines (December 1989)
Authors:	^{Rafique H. Keshavjee, Ph.D.; Mona Serageldin; François Vigier;}
Sponsors:	^{World Health Organization; Ford Foundation;}
Categories:	Climate Change and Resilience Building

ID:	1989_07_001

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July 1984April 2025

Design Studio 1984: “Design, Technology and Logistics for Large Housing Projects,” in Algeria, India, Iraq, Malaysia, Mali and Singapore, Seminar Curriculum

Abstract

The 1984 Design Studio, “Design, Technology and Logistics for Large Housing Projects” was held jointly by Unit for Housing and Urbanization at the Harvard Graduate School of Design and MIT Laboratory of Architecture and Planning from July 23-27, 1984.

Documents include a workshop schedule and summary, a bibliography, a table of contents with list of guest speakers, and background documents on Algeria, India, Iraq, Malaysia, Mali, and Singapore.

Excerpt

[Excerpt: 1984 Design Studio: Workshop Schedule and Summary, p7-8]

Note: See page 7-8 for full Workshop Topic Summaries:

1) Making Large-scale Housing Livable
2) Building Technologies for the Future
3) Alternative Approaches in Low-Cost Housing
4) Implementation and Management Strategies

Project Year:	1984
Project Type:	Urban Design Studio
Geographic Regions:	^{Algeria / India / Iraq / Malaysia / Mali / Singapore}
Reports:	1984 Design Studio: Workshop Schedule and Summary 1984 Design Studio: Bibliography 1984 Design Studio: Table of Contents and Guest Speakers 1984 Design Studio: Algeria (Background Document) 1984 Design Studio: India (Background Document) 1984 Design Studio: Iraq (Background Document) 1984 Design Studio: Malaysia (Background Document) 1984 Design Studio: Mali (Background Document) 1984 Design Studio: Singapore (Background Document)
Authors:	^{François Vigier; Mona Serageldin;}
Sponsors:	^{The Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture at Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology}
Categories:	Design Studios; Education;
ID:	1984_07_001

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Gallery 1 – Algeria: Algiers, 1987-1988