Rigidness of Planning Law Causing Fragile Grounds for Crafting Planning Tools: Neoliberal Power and Ideology Immersed on Urban Space

Abstract

This study undertakes an in-depth examination of the planning and privatization process in Istanbul, Turkey, with a particular focus on the interplay of capital, networking, and implicit relationships among various layers of authority and actors. The primary objective is to unravel the intricate dynamics of power relations within these processes and their ramifications for institutional ethics in planning. Specifically, the study investigates how these dynamics contribute to the expansion of building rights and the commodification of urban public land. Moreover, this study delves into the diverse driving forces that perpetuate instability in the planning process, encompassing aspects such as procedural intricacies, resultant outcomes, and broader implications. It recognizes the influence of interventionist governance and the intricate web of power relationships in shaping these dynamics. In essence, this research endeavours to offer a comprehensive understanding of the planning and privatization process in Istanbul, shedding light on the underlying power dynamics and their repercussions for institutional ethics and urban development. By unearthing these insights, it seeks to contribute to inform the development of legal frameworks and policies that promote transparency, ethical conduct, and sustainable urban planning practices.