Experiences of Participatory Planning in Contexts of Inequality: A Qualitative Study of Urban Renewal Projects in Colombia

Participatory planning is widely promoted to restore democratic legitimacy and inclusion. Based on interviews in marginalised neighbourhoods in Bogotá and Medellín, Colombia, this paper shows that, while participatory planning can generate neighbourhood upgrades, limited flexibility and participation made citizens feel marginalised and dependent rather than included and empowered. Participants felt discriminated against based on income and challenged expectations of compliance and gratefulness. The potential causes for conflict and misunderstanding highlighted in this paper have relevance for participatory planning strategies that seek to include previously marginalised neighbourhoods and their residents into the social and physical fabric of the city.