Addressing the Social Challenges of Solid Informal Settlements and their Impacts on Residents' Behavior: A Case Study of Constantine

Abstract

Abstract: This study investigates the negative impacts of solid informal settlements on Constantine's residents and proposes realistic solutions within a robust legal framework. The objective is to integrate these neighbourhoods into the city's urban, social, and economic fabric through practical field-level interventions. This comprehensive approach aims to achieve the desired environmental and urban balance, promote social justice, and elevate Algerian cities to global standards. The uncontrolled growth of these solid informal settlements has become a significant burden on Constantine, gradually encroaching on planned neighbourhoods. This unbalanced and unplanned development has resulted in a spatially and socially fragmented city. Juxtaposed within Constantine are legal, well-planned neighbourhoods with full amenities and these solid informal settlements, which lack basic services, infrastructure, and proper urban planning. This disparity has led to a form of urban marginalisation for residents of the informal settlements, with varying degrees of exclusion impacting their social and psychological well-being. Keywords: Negative Impacts; informal settlements; Urban environment; Urban marginalisation; Individual behaviour; Constantine.