Squatting and the State: Resilient Property in an Age of Crisis

Centered around the case study of homeless squatting on empty land, this book offers a fresh lens through which to understand the nature and effects of state action with respect to private property in periods of crisis and pressure.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 480 pages
Publication date: 25 August 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Squatting and the State presents a groundbreaking theoretical and methodological framework for examining the state's response to various forms of urban homelessness, vacant land, and housing. Rooted in local, national, and transnational contexts, this essential work transcends conventional property theories and offers a novel analytical paradigm for comprehending the complex and interconnected challenges faced by not only the traditional victims of narratives about homelessness and squatting but also a diverse range of other stakeholders involved in these conflicts. In the context of economic, social, and political crises, Squatting and the State provides valuable insights into the evolving nature of property, investment, housing, communities, and the multifaceted state apparatus. It also outlines the profound implications of these changes for our understanding and discourse on property in legal contexts.

This book offers a comprehensive exploration of the historical, legal, and social dimensions of squatting, providing a rich tapestry of perspectives and insights. It delves into the complex dynamics between squatters, governments, and property owners, examining the ways in which these interactions shape the urban landscape and the lives of those involved. Through a multidisciplinary approach, the book combines legal analysis, social science research, and historical documentation to shed light on the complex web of factors that contribute to squatting and its various manifestations.

One of the key themes explored in Squatting and the State is the historical and cultural significance of squatting as a form of resistance and activism. The book traces the origins of squatting in different parts of the world and highlights the ways in which it has been used by marginalized communities to assert their rights and claim access to land and housing. It also examines the ways in which squatting has been criminalized and suppressed by governments, and the ways in which squatters have responded to these challenges.

Another important aspect of the book is its analysis of the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern squatting in different jurisdictions. It explores the various legal strategies employed by governments to evict squatters, the rights and responsibilities of squatters and property owners, and the ways in which these frameworks have been challenged and reformed. The book also examines the role of legal institutions and advocacy organizations in promoting squatters' rights and advocating for more inclusive and sustainable urban development.

In addition to its legal and social dimensions, Squatting and the State also explores the political and economic implications of squatting. It examines the ways in which squatting can contribute to the creation of alternative urban spaces and communities, and the ways in which it can challenge dominant power structures and promote social and economic justice. The book also explores the ways in which squatting can be used as a tool for political activism and social change, and the challenges that arise in this context.

Overall, Squatting and the State is a groundbreaking and essential work that offers a fresh and comprehensive perspective on squatting and its various manifestations. It provides readers with a wealth of insights and perspectives that challenge conventional understandings of property, homelessness, and urban development. By examining the complex interplay between squatters, governments, and property owners, this book contributes to our understanding of the social, legal, and political dynamics that shape our cities and communities.

Weight: 661g
ISBN-13: 9781108738033