Urban Spaces, Social Identity, and Inclusion: Policy Pathways to Address Inequities

Abstract

The article thoughtfully examines the dynamics of social inclusion and exclusion in urban environments, highlighting the crucial need for equitable access to resources and recognising marginalised communities' valuable contributions. The article also discusses the positive potential of urbanisation to address social segregation and economic exclusion while emphasising the importance of tackling systemic inequalities in accessing services. To foster a more inclusive urban landscape, the study advocates for targeted policy interventions that prioritise the unique needs of various groups. By implementing group-specific strategies, we can cultivate a more equitable urban environment that celebrates diversity and actively supports marginalised populations.

Introduction

Green spaces are widely recognised for their benefits to physical and mental health (Twohig-Bennett & Jones, 2018; Wolch et al., 2014). However, there is growing concern about the underrepresentation of minority ethnic communities among those visiting these areas (Burt et al., 2013; TNS, 2014). Most studies focusing on access to green spaces for minority ethnic communities primarily examine urban settings (Askins, 2009; Gentin, 2011). There is a common perception that minority ethnic communities are seldom found in rural green spaces, a notion that Askins (2006: 3) refers to as the "mythologised absence." Ignoring the role of rural areas in discussions about minority ethnic communities' access to green spaces reinforces the idea that urban spaces are multicultural while rural areas are monocultural (Askins, 2009, p. 366). Therefore, to truly understand access to green spaces, it is also essential to consider rural landscapes.

Hamid Ansari, the Vice President of India, highlights the critical role of urban areas and governance systems in shaping political and economic landscapes. He notes that while 'exclusionary' urbanisation may benefit particular social groups, it presents an opportunity to rethink our approach to inclusivity. We can ensure a more equitable distribution of resources by addressing these disparities. Focusing on developing small and medium-sized towns can enhance access to infrastructure and essential services, ultimately fostering a more balanced urban growth that benefits all communities.

Urban Spaces

In urban daily life, activities like grocery shopping, visiting a barber, grabbing coffee, or walking to a metro station are intrinsically linked to specific spaces. Those living in multiethnic neighbourhoods actively encounter a variety of groups across different city areas (Piekut & Valentine, 2017). A critical distinction exists between public and private spaces. Public spaces are accessible to everyone, while private spaces owned by individuals or corporations restrict access to outsiders. Since public spaces are open to all, they significantly enhance the likelihood of interactions with diverse migrant groups, unlike more exclusive spaces. These interactions typically unfold in neighbourhood streets, parks, local services, or on public transport (Lofland, 1989).

Vaughan et al. (2005) offers a detailed analysis of the relationship between spatial segregation and economic deprivation in urban areas. Interconnected social and economic factors shape the geography of exclusion and deprivation in these environments. When rural poverty migrates to urban centres in search of better livelihood opportunities, it often results in the expansion of slums and low-income settlements. Consequently, social exclusion in urban contexts prevents poor and marginalised groups from participating equally in social, economic, and political spheres, which hinders their ability to fully realise their rights as equal citizens in the city. Spatial and economic exclusion also affects social relationships, as explored in this study. Wolfe (1995) identifies six dimensions of social exclusion in urban contexts: exclusion from employment, social services, cultural participation, political decision-making, social engagement, and access to knowledge. These dimensions are interconnected and often overlap rather than being mutually exclusive.

Marginalised social groups experience exclusion across various socio-economic domains, which undermines their overall well-being. Discrimination and prejudice based on social identity limit equal access to employment and livelihood opportunities for individuals from marginalised groups, including Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and religious minorities (Thorat et al., 2023). These exclusionary practices in the labour market leads to wage and income losses for these groups, restricting their access to education, healthcare, and quality housing. The India Exclusion Report 2013-14 by the Centre for Equity Studies highlights that Adivasis fall 12.9 percentage points below the national literacy average, while Muslim children's school attendance is nearly 5 points below. In housing, marginalised communities, particularly female-headed SC and ST households, suffer from lower-quality housing and limited access to essential services. Housing and finance markets show segregation based on caste, religion, and identity. In the labour market, Dalits, Adivasis, and Muslims face limited access to decent work, often relegated to low-end jobs, with persons with disabilities and women experiencing significant exclusion and disadvantage.

Social- Exclusion in The Cities

The rapid urbanisation of our megacities has profoundly altered the social landscapes of countless individuals migrating from diverse regions. According to NSSO data, Maharashtra leads in hosting external migrants, followed closely by Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. These migrants often grapple with immense stress and are confronted by threats from the local community people- as they are often regarded as ‘outsiders.’ Recent alarming incidents of discrimination and violence targeting individuals from northeastern India, alongside rising communal tensions across the nation, have brought these vulnerable groups into sharp focus. A survey conducted by the ReachOut Foundation in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) indicates that 54 per cent of individuals from the northeastern states recognise discrimination as a serious issue in the capital. Moreover, a striking 74 per cent of respondents assert that Delhi is the "most unsafe" place in terms of ethnic discrimination. Their challenges regarding safety are escalating in scope and complexity, demanding urgent attention. We must confront the pressing issues head-on and advocate for a more inclusive society that values diversity and fosters understanding for all.

The study "Residential Segregation and Unequal Access to Local Public Services in India: Evidence from 1.5m Neighborhoods" conducted by Asher et al. (2024)decisively examines residential segregation and access to public services across 1.5 million neighbourhoods in India, focusing on Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Muslims. The findings reveal that urban segregation for these groups mirrors the Black/White segregation prevalent in the United States. Public services, including schools, healthcare facilities, and basic infrastructure, are noticeably less accessible in Muslim and SC neighbourhoods, with the most severe disparities found at the neighbourhood level. Despite policies designed to promote equitable service provision, local allocation practices often overlooked compared to those at higher administrative levels perpetuate these inequalities (Jaffrelot & Gayer, 2012). -. Furthermore, private service providers often neglect marginalised neighbourhoods due to their lower economic standing, further entrenching these inequalities. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted policy interventions to address local governance-level disparities, ensuring equitable access to essential services for marginalised communities.

Policy Recommendations

Policy interventions play a crucial role in fostering an inclusive society by addressing social identity-based exclusion and discrimination against marginalised groups, including Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Muslims, and ethnic minorities. The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) for 2018-19 highlights that a significant 90% of the workforce approximately 419 million out of 465 million individuals are engaged in the informal sector. A range of effective schemes and programs actively support informal and migrant workers, typically requiring registration or identity cards. A crucial initiative is the Building and Other Construction Workers Act (1996), which provides essential welfare funding through a construction tax. Despite this, low registration numbers significantly hinder its effectiveness.

The Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) and the Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY) are essential central government programs that directly address urban development and the needs of slum dwellers. JNNURM is dedicated to enhancing infrastructure and essential services, while RAY is committed to delivering housing solutions for the urban poor. Both programs are crucial advancements in effectively addressing the needs of the urban poor and slum dwellers.

The eShram portal offers unorganized workers a straightforward registration process, enabling seamless connections to various social security schemes. The e-Shram portal was established after a Supreme Court directive for the government to register unorganized workers, consolidates data from multiple ministries into one repository, ensuring transparency and empowering informal workers with easy access to government welfare initiatives.

Promoting civic values that celebrate socio-religious and ethnic diversity is essential in nurturing understanding and respect among individuals. Initiatives aimed at facilitating social interactions and counselling for peers and educators can help foster a culture of non-discrimination. Social inclusion is an essential goal that encompasses not just equitable and non-discriminatory access to social and economic resources but also the acknowledgement of individual contributions and their sense of belonging in urban environments. By doing so, we foster a more inclusive urban landscape that values and supports all citizens.

Conclusion

The challenges of urbanisation present an opportunity for us to take meaningful action to support marginalised communities and build a more inclusive society. The findings reveal persistent social and economic inequalities that impact the urban experience for these groups, particularly in their access to public services and opportunities for social mobility. To effectively address these disparities, we can implement a multifaceted approach that includes robust policies, equitable resource distribution, and a strong emphasis on social inclusion at the local level. The journey towards inclusivity lies in bridging gaps between marginalised and non-marginalised groups, ensuring fair access to resources, and transforming urban spaces so that they benefit everyone. Together, we can build a future that uplifts all residents and fosters genuine connection and understanding.

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