Progressive Urbanism

Abstract

It is time to better understand how despite numerous constrains innovative, equitable practices that lead to progress have emerged in cities in the global south and east, especially acknowledging new development pathways which are different than how cities in the developed countries had evolved. This essay proposes a new understanding of “progress” and “urbanism” building on recent research on development- and urbanism-literature. The term ‘progressive’ is meant to signify an advancement of and a convergence towards a new form of economic development which leads to climate-friendly urbanism, in line with the global urban agenda, which calls for an inclusive built environment for the majority. Cities and regions in the Global South are the best places to understand about progressive urbanism right now.