Trajectories of Governance: Tracing the Entanglements of Order and Violence in Peripheral Cities of Latin America

Trajectories of Governance explores the complex dynamics of order-making, violence, and governance in peripheral cities in Latin America, using case studies of Chalatenango and Sonsonate in El Salvador and Pereira and Tunja in Colombia to understand why and how some cities have become the locus of violent orders while others have managed to control violence.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2024
Publisher: Bristol University Press

Trajectories of Governance is a research project that explores the complex dynamics of order-making, violence, and governance in peripheral cities in Latin America from a comparative, historical, and multi-scalar perspective. It aims to uncover the drivers, contexts, and uneven levels of violence in these cities through case studies of Chalatenango and Sonsonate in El Salvador and Pereira and Tunja in Colombia. The project employs a multidisciplinary analytical framework to explain why and how some peripheral cities have become the locus of violent orders, while others have managed to control violence and examine the role of violence in the workings of local governance.

The project begins by examining the historical and political contexts that have shaped the development of peripheral cities in Latin America. It highlights the role of colonialism, globalization, and neoliberalism in creating conditions of inequality, poverty, and social exclusion that have contributed to the emergence of violent orders. The project then explores the various forms of violence that exist in peripheral cities, including state-sponsored violence, organized crime, and community-based violence. It examines the factors that drive these forms of violence, such as social inequality, political instability, and the lack of access to basic services.

One of the key objectives of Trajectories of Governance is to identify the drivers of violence in peripheral cities. The project examines the role of political institutions, economic systems, and social structures in shaping the dynamics of violence. It explores the ways in which these institutions and systems can contribute to the perpetuation of violence or to its control. For example, the project examines the role of the state in promoting violence through the use of police and military forces, as well as the role of private companies in exploiting workers and communities.

The project also examines the role of social movements and community organizations in addressing violence. It highlights the ways in which these groups can mobilize and organize to challenge the status quo and promote social justice. The project explores the challenges that these groups face, such as repression, violence, and lack of resources.

In addition to examining the drivers of violence, Trajectories of Governance also explores the contexts in which violence occurs. The project examines the spatial dimensions of violence, including the location of violence within cities, the patterns of movement of people and goods, and the impact of violence on the environment. The project also examines the social dimensions of violence, including the role of gender, race, and class in shaping the dynamics of violence.

The project also examines the role of governance in addressing violence. It explores the ways in which local governments can promote social justice and reduce violence. The project examines the challenges that local governments face, such as limited resources, political instability, and corruption. The project also explores the role of international organizations and donors in supporting local governance efforts.

One of the key findings of Trajectories of Governance is that the drivers of violence in peripheral cities are complex and multifaceted. The project highlights the role of political institutions, economic systems, and social structures in shaping the dynamics of violence. It also highlights the role of social movements and community organizations in addressing violence. The project also highlights the importance of governance in addressing violence, but notes that local governments face significant challenges in promoting social justice and reducing violence.

To address these challenges, Trajectories of Governance proposes a series of policy recommendations. The project suggests that local governments should prioritize the development of social infrastructure, such as schools, hospitals, and public transportation. The project also suggests that local governments should implement policies that promote social inclusion and reduce inequality. The project also suggests that local governments should work with international organizations and donors to support local governance efforts.

In conclusion, Trajectories of Governance is a research project that explores the complex dynamics of order-making, violence, and governance in peripheral cities in Latin America from a comparative, historical, and multi-scalar perspective. It aims to uncover the drivers, contexts, and uneven levels of violence in these cities through case studies of Chalatenango and Sonsonate in El Salvador and Pereira and Tunja in Colombia. The project employs a multidisciplinary analytical framework to explain why and how some peripheral cities have become the locus of violent orders, while others have managed to control violence and examine the role of violence in the workings of local governance. The project proposes a series of policy recommendations to address these challenges.

Weight: 576g
Dimension: 161 x 241 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529236286