Publication

This paper considers the frequent discrepancies between theory and practice in developing countries' urban development programs and questions the poverty alleviation powers of economic liberalization. Drawing upon three Southeast Asian case studies - the Philippines, Thailand and Indonesia - the author highlights the importance of understanding the challenges posed for sustainable urban development by current processes of urbanization, democratization, decentralization and economic liberalization. The paper argues that neo-liberal policies undermine development efforts by weakening government responsibility in key areas of public concern. In addition, the author thinks that free-market reforms lack environmental sensitivity and encourage deep splits within communities.