CLGF took part in a public event to showcase research on Economic Recovery in Post-Conflict Cities at the Anglo Centre in Bloomsbury, London. Held at the beginning of July, the evening panel discussion complemented, and drew from the discussions of a two-day research seminar, jointly hosted by CLGF.

Three year research programme

Led by Professor Alison Brown from the Cardiff University Informal Economy Research Observatory with Dr Pete Mckee, the event shared the findings from a three year DFID-ESRC research programme on the informal economy in post-conflict cities. Speakers included Dr Saeed Ahmed (Karachi, Pakistan), Prof Sudha Shrestha (Kathmandu, Nepal), Dr Nesreen Barwari (Dohuk, Iraq), Eid Ahmed (Hargeisa, Somaliland) and Dr Lina Martinez (Cali, Colombia); they talked about their detailed case studies, allowing comparative analysis and information about the partnerships with UN-Habitat and the CLGF.

Distinguished experts reveal findings

Having such distinguished experts in this field assembled in London for the research seminar provided the ideal opportunity to hold a wider event for an external audience. 

In the majority of conflict or crises-affected cities, the informal economy is the economy – and plays a critical role in providing livelihoods for the majority of urban dwellers, including internally displaced persons and migrants, and in supporting replacement urban services. This event explored the dynamics of informal enterprise, its wider economic implications, problems, and contribution to resilience in the aftermath of urban shocks of stress.

Cities facing difference recovery challenges

Comparing cities facing different recovery challenges – from civil war and ethnic conflict to drug and gang-related crime – the event brought together the urban experts to explore the trajectories and impact of crises on the informal economy and to explore policy recommendations for the development and local government sectors.