Social and spatial exclusion in the context of new urban poverty: The case of Fikirepe in İstanbul

In today's rapidly changing urban landscape, the intensive migration to metropolises and the influence of capital on urban spaces stand as significant reasons for the emerging issue of new urban poverty marked by uncertainty and complexity. This challenge encompasses not only economic but also social, cultural, health, education, and political dimensions. In this context, the existential experiences and challenges faced by individuals marginalized from the city's social fabric, cultural dynamics, and societal structures highlight a critical matter deserving in-depth exploration. This doctoral thesis examines the effects of urban transformation on new urban poverty in the Fikirtepe region of Kadıköy district in İstanbul. Urban transformation processes today bring about intricate changes that profoundly impact the physical and societal fabric of cities. The research analyses the effects of the urban transformation in Fikirtepe on local residents' living conditions, social relationships, and spatial arrangements. The primary goal of this thesis is to comprehend the processes of social and spatial exclusion induced by urban transformation within the context of new urban poverty. The research adopts a qualitative approach, utilizing in-depth interviews and observation methods. Furthermore, secondary data sources are analysed to achieve a comprehensive perspective. In-depth interviews were conducted in Istanbul Fikirtepe through a semi-structured questionnaire consisting of open-ended questions, employing snowball sampling technique, involving 54 individuals, with attention to gender and age distribution. Findings suggest that urban transformation may weaken social networks, restrict access to services, and spatially segregate local communities. Through in-depth analysis and comprehensive research, it becomes evident that urban poverty not only entails an economic dimension but also influences fundamental aspects of individuals' lives, such as their sense of social belonging, access to healthcare, educational opportunities, and participation in politics and civil society organizations. In this context, income inequality, as well as labor market position, housing, relationship networks, and forms of social and spatial exclusion, are addressed and solutions are shaped within this profound understanding. In conclusion, the thesis aims to shed light on recommendations for more equitable and inclusive urban policies in the future. Keywords: New Urban Poverty, Urban Transformation, Social Exclusion, Spatial Exclusion,Fikirtepe.