The general aim of the seminar is to understand the specific spatial planning challenges in South Eastern Europe. Like no other part of Europe, this area is characterised by political and social changes. Balkan wars have also had a major impact on political, social and spatial development in this area. The Balkan states have set themselves goals in their transition policies to become members of the EU and NATO. To achieve this, countries need to reform, change their policies and maintain cooperative, fair and peaceful relations with their neighbours.
Different administrative systems and governmental hierarchies in the Balkans have brought the states into different stages of their European participation and integration policies, although it is obvious that the whole area's development agenda is focused on similar issues. The most important is the infrastructure and the transport network. Followed by privatisation, ownership, housing and employment security, the rule of law and social participation. These issues have a direct impact on spatial development and require (demand) a wide range of applicable and functional spatial planning laws, institutions and instruments.
In frame of an interactive discussion, with focus on reflexion and interpretation of historic and future development, it is expected to recognize and analyse the spatial developing problems for one (freely) selected country from the Balkan in context of:
Possible thematic focus:
Preparation of a seminar work / paper (20-25 pages) and submission by the end of the summer term.
Deadline will be defined!
