Urban Upgrading With Social Inclusion: The Case of Villa Tranquila - Reflections Brief

The case study of Villa Tranquila (VT) in Buenos Aires, Argentina, shows the power of a slum upgrading process centred on a local policy of social inclusion. The intervention was characterised by an integral approach: urban problems were addressed by a participative-collaborative management structure between the local government and VT residents, and rather than only focusing on infrastructure like roads and housing, social issues were also addressed. This case offers an outstanding model for achieving social cohesion, community appropriation and sustainability in slum upgrading, one that could be applied in other regions as well.