Spatial and organizational aspects of anti-eviction strategies

Abstract

Informal urbanization is inherently tied to threats of eviction. This article contributes to the expanding study of evictions by depicting and framing anti-eviction strategies taken by informal inhabitants in two interrelated evolving aspects: collective organization and production of space. The former is analysed as a gradual weaving of social–political connections, starting from the community level and maturing into a trans-local network of connections and collaborations against eviction. The latter is composed of placing facts-on-the-ground, acting to produce alternative knowledge, and acquiring symbolic recognition. These themes have been mentioned and debated in the literature but have not yet been integrated under a theoretical umbrella that covers both elements, to allow a comprehensive understanding of how anti-eviction strategies fundamentally shape current urbanization around the globe.