TITLE:
Comparison of Issues and Countermeasures among Previous and Current Squatter Formations in Yangon, Myanmar
AUTHORS:
Myint Naing, Vilas Nitivattananon
KEYWORDS:
Countermeasures, Participatory Approach, Rapid Urbanization, Squatter Formation, Yangon
JOURNAL NAME:
Current Urban Studies,
Vol.8 No.3,
September
2,
2020
ABSTRACT: Along
with the transition era, Yangon has been facing rapid urbanization and being
challenged by the inevitable urban issues including slum and squatter
settlements. Current squatter formation and expansion has been emerging in
Yangon with the dichotomy between the urban population growth and the urban
poverty. In this study, the main objective is to compare the root causes and
countermeasures between the current and previous squatter formations. Mixed research, including qualitative and
quantitative approaches, is applied to analyze data obtained from both primary and
secondary sources. This paper argues that although the participatory approach is the most effective practice in the developing
countries, the community-led housing scheme is doubtful for success in Yangon context. The major concerns regarding
government role and will or mind-set of governmental organizations,
paternalistic role of professionals, selective participation and excessive
pressure for immediate results have been reported. It recommends that slum
upgrading schemes should focus both on physical infrastructures and
socio-economic development.