| Abstract |
"Reconstruction as Violence delves into the complex interplay of post-conflict reconstruction in Syria, challenging the traditionally held dichotomy between the end of violence and the commencement of rebuilding. The authors, architects, urbanists, geographers, and historians, employ critical concepts such as urbicide, domicide, and "civilian crisis architecture" to argue against the conventional theoretical frameworks that support a neat separation of phases, a viewpoint prevalent among NGOs, the private sector, and governmental bodies. Through this lens, the work scrutinizes the intricate relationship between urban planning, political agendas, and the social fabric within the reconstruction process, advocating for a profound theoretical reorientation. The book weaves together expert analyses and case studies to illustrate how reconstruction often extends the dynamics of conflict into the urban and social realms, suggesting that the built environment becomes a battleground for further violence. It emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the historical, economic, societal, legal, and bureaucratic contexts that shape reconstruction efforts, arguing for initiatives that prioritize equity, inclusivity, and community participation. The book underscores the authors' stance that overlooking any of these dimensions or disengaging from the reconstruction process altogether represents a political choice with potentially detrimental effects on Syria and beyond in the Arab world, where countries like Palestine, Yemen, Libya, Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt, and Sudan are undergoing similar cycles of destruction and rebuilding. The work calls for a reimagined approach to reconstruction, one that fosters peace, resilience, and social justice in post-conflict societies"-- Provided by publisher. |
