Evaluation of expropriation and urgent expropriation practices in urban transformation through urban rights: Bitlis example

In this research, which aims to examine the evaluation of expropriation and urgent expropriation practices in urban transformation through urban rights, interviews were conducted with tradesmen in the old and new bazaars in Bitlis using a semi-structured interview form consisting of 9 questions. In the research, the experiences of tradesmen who were subjected to the urban transformation process were evaluated using thematic analysis method. The research findings revealed that tradesmen were not sufficiently informed during the urban transformation process and were excluded from decision-making processes. The majority of the participants stated that they were not provided with sufficient, clear and timely information about the transformation process; and the information provided was mostly superficial and one-sided. It is understood that the principles of justice, transparency and fairness were violated in the expropriation and urgent expropriation processes; many tradesmen were deprived of their right to compensation, and alternative workplace options were not presented in an equal manner. It was also observed that tradesmen experienced a serious lack of support in terms of housing and social security. The failure to provide basic infrastructure facilities such as rent assistance, moving support, electricity and water in a timely manner during the transition period has created both economic and psychological pressure on tradesmen. A large portion of tradesmen who moved to new workplaces stated that they could not adapt to the new locations in terms of space and accessibility, that they had difficulty reaching their old customers, and that this situation directly negatively affected their commercial activities. In addition, it was determined that traditional social ties between tradesmen and customers weakened, cultural continuity was interrupted, and the identity dimension of local trade was significantly eroded. The study also found that tradesmen could not see long-term economic security in their new workplaces, their income levels decreased, and many businesses were at risk of closure. The fact that no compensation or support policy was developed for tradesmen in the position of tenants has led to the questioning of the process in the context of social justice. As a result, this research draws attention to the necessity of multidimensional evaluation of public benefit in transformation processes, rights-based protection of disadvantaged groups and ensuring effective participation of local stakeholders in the process. Based on the experiences of tradesmen, it is emphasized that participatory, egalitarian and sustainable policy proposals should be developed in urban transformation practices.