Spanning multiple countries across South America, Europe and Africa, this book investigates the phenomenon of self-building for low- and middle-income groups in urban areas. It explores the tension between governance and self-regulation, considering how this relationship can be remodelled and optimised to create more socially sustainable forms of urbanisation. It argues for a rethinking of governance and the moral and managerial ownership of the city.

Contributions by: Ledio Allkja, Adama Belemviré, İclal Dinçer, Zeynep Enlil, Janaina Marx, Hernán Espinoza Riera, Irene De Queiroz E Mello, Luciana Corrêa Do Lago, Juliana Do Amaral Costa Lima, Flávia Massimetti, Cecília Andrade Fiúza, Adelcke Rossetto Netto, Nicky Pouw, Caio Santo Amore, Jorge Bassani, Suzana Pasternak