Minorities and the City

Spatial conditions reflect social, political, economic, and cultural norms in a city. This course intends to shed light on the concept of minorities and their role in city development, by looking at minorities from deeper perspectives: the marginalised, the disabled, the disadvantaged and the vulnerable.

This will be pursued by looking at and linking theories with reality through raising questions like: How do minorities inhabit and reflect their identity in the city? What is beyond spatially observed minorities? What is their role in creating their own spaces? How are they represented in the city? What are their attempts to be integrated and included, and what is the role of the state and other actors in this?

During the course the status quo of minorities in Egypt will be discussed as well as their role in development. In addition, how can minority groups be included in city development will be explored to Interrogate policies and practices in Egypt with regard to minorities, vulnerable, disadvantaged and marginalised groups.

The course tackles topics like: socio-spatial relationships, city development, inclusion, and justice with a special focus on the Egyptian context. The course also opens a door for discussion on the future of minorities in Egypt.