The Impact of Neoliberal Policies on Historic Urban Space: Areas of Urban Renewal in Istanbul

Neoliberal urban renewal policies in Istanbul have significantly altered historic urban spaces, prioritizing private capital accumulation over the preservation of cultural heritage and local livelihoods. The 2005 Law on Renewal, which designates areas for redevelopment, has been implemented through four case studies—Sulukule, Tarlabasi, Suleymaniye, and Fener-Balat—revealing how municipalities leverage this framework to dismantle historic housing as 'common public assets.' This shift undermines both local economies and the cultural capital of communities, challenging traditional notions of urban space ownership. The study critically analyzes these processes, highlighting the tension between state-authorized redevelopment and the preservation of Istanbul's historic identity.

Dinçer, İ. (2011). The Impact of Neoliberal Policies on Historic Urban Space: Areas of Urban Renewal in Istanbul. International Planning Studies, 16(1), 43–60. https://doi.org/10.1080/13563475.2011.552474