Rights And Responsibilities Versus Ownership And Administration
Whose Space Is It
Overview
There seems an intriguing mix of socio-geographical recognitions, desires and material conditions transforming public spaces. The paper uses Alexandria, Egypt, and applies both the theory and method of semiology to argue that transformations of public space result from tensions and contradictions between the use value of the public spaces and their market value. Alexandrians do not feel they own the public space; instead, they believe it is State-owned property. Their access to both the public sphere and space is limited. Their participation in decision-making is constrained. Thus, they feel alienated and do not own the public space.
