A call to action: Unpacking the challenges to implementing social sustainability initiatives in a developing country city
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
8-1-2023
Abstract
With cities sprawling and populations booming in developing regions, ensuring social sustain ability in urban areas has become more urgent. This study investigates the challenges of implementing social sustainability initiatives for cities in developing countries, focusing on Dhaka as a representative city. A mixed-method approach involving structured questionnaire surveys and key informant interviews was used to collect quantitative and qualitative data. The study identified eighteen challenges to implementing social sustainability initiatives in Dhaka city, including a lack of poor urban governance, an inefficient city management system, a lack of political stability, a long delay in the planning approval process, etc. Additionally, experts identified additional challenges that require attention. The study offers empirical evidence to assist government officials, policymakers, and urban planners overcome these challenges and implement social sustainability effectively. To address the identified challenges, the study recommends revisiting the Structure Plan, Urban Area Plan, Detailed Area Plan, and Urban Sector Policy-2011. It highlights the crucial role of community social workers in mitigating specific issues in socially sustainable urban development. Eventually, the study will contribute to the implementation of SDG-11 in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by bridging the gap between urbanization and socially sustainable cities.
Keywords
Social sustainability, Implementation challenges, Socially sustainable urban, Sustainable development, Rapid urbanization, Developing region
Divisions
arts
Funders
None
Publication Title
Heliyon
Volume
9
Issue
8
Publisher
Cell Press
Publisher Location
50 HAMPSHIRE ST, FLOOR 5, CAMBRIDGE, MA 02139 USA