Slum Enumerations in Latin America: Methodological Considerations and Policy Implications

Abstract

Although the theory and practice have made significant progress in the recognition of slums as an essential category of spatial inequality and urban growth in developing countries, there are still major challenges in their characterization and understanding regarding its territorial and social dimension. This article seeks to contribute to this discussion in relation to definitions and methods, based on the accumulated experience of Techo Foundation in performing Slums Enumerations for over a decade in different countries of Latin America. We describe the main approaches from where settlements are currently understood, presenting also the definition and method that the foundation has developed, based on the joint work of volunteers, slum dwellers and professionals. Together with general results, some methodological and policy implications are pointed up, particularly with regard to the promotion of active citizenship and the development of participatory methodologies that incorporate organizations and neighborhood leaders into bottom-up local projects.