Spatial Intervention Processes and Practices of Struggle

Abstract

Neo-liberal political axis transformed the urban space to a power field, which is supposed to be shaped by interaction with urban dwellers, and we are witnessing the transformation process of urban space depending on the ruling power's future vision. Klientalism carried out on the basis of participation mechanisms, decision making processes departing from the powerful stands as the reasons of failure of civic participatory experinces. On the other hand, prevailing political climate within the society, lack of local participation in culture and the status of civic organizations, appear to be the obstacles of participation in the planning proceses. This article aims to evaluate the current position of the urban actors within the framework of participatory planning approach through Turkey and Istanbul. In making this assessment; participatory observation, in-depth interviews and focus group meetings in the area was our guide. Thus, in the changing political and economic conjuncture in Turkey, we tried to interpret the dynamics of interventions of the so-called profit seeking organization local governments and the resistance against this phenomena.