Page 174 - JCAU-7-3

Journal of Chinese
Architecture and Urbanism Urban orientalism and informal urbanization

a higher risk of contracting contagious diseases such as settlements to better serve marginalized populations
hepatitis, tuberculosis, and respiratory infections due to (UNDP, 2017). By prioritizing social equity and human
overcrowded living conditions and inadequate sanitation rights in local governance and policymaking, Jinan and
facilities (Magalhães et al., 2019). The lack of access to similar cities may enhance the quality of life and resilience
potable water, adequate sanitation systems, and healthcare of their residents (WHO, 2019).
services exacerbate the spread of diseases, resulting In summary, the prevalence of favelas in Jinan, along
in elevated morbidity and mortality rates (Corburn & with associated urban diseases and hygiene challenges,
Hildebrand, 2015). highlights the pressing need for comprehensive and
In addition to health challenges, informal settlements integrated solutions that tackle the root causes of informality
in Jinan significantly impact environmental welfare and and foster inclusive urban development. Policymakers and
urban sanitation. Poor waste management practices, practitioners must prioritize infrastructure development,
such as indiscriminate disposal and open-air burning of public services, and community engagement initiatives to
garbage, contribute to air and water pollution in and around improve the welfare of underprivileged urban populations
favelas (Albiero et al., 2018). Accumulated solid waste and and reduce health risks. By adopting a comprehensive
untreated sewage pose immediate health hazards while also strategy addressing housing, human rights, and health
undermining the ecosystem’s regenerative capacity and issues, cities like Jinan have the potential to lead the way in
causing long-term environmental degradation (Muggah, creating resilient and equitable urban features.
2019). The lack of adequate infrastructure and public
services in informal settlements further impedes efforts 5.4. Rural enclaves, modernization, and theories of
to improve urban hygiene, perpetuating a cycle of poverty marginality
and illness (Birley, 2018). Addressing the challenges posed Analyzing the intricate interconnections between
by Jinan’s informal settlements requires a comprehensive modernization, marginality, and rural enclaves is essential
approach integrating community development, to understanding the dynamics of urban disease, hygiene,
urban planning, and public health. The World Health and favelas in Jinan. Rural enclaves, commonly located
Organization (2020) emphasizes prioritizing access to on the outskirts of metropolitan areas, are characterized
clean drinking water, adequate sanitation facilities, and by distinct cultural practices, traditional livelihoods,
healthcare services to improve living conditions in favelas. and socioeconomic systems coexisting with broader
Investments in essential infrastructure, such as waste urbanization and modernization patterns (Mingione,
management systems, sewage networks, and piped water 2019). Enclaves within the larger metropolitan area are
supplies, are critical to mitigating the effects of preventable typically excluded from urban development and face
diseases and enhancing community well-being (Fischer challenges in accessing vital facilities such as healthcare
et al., 2019). and sanitation.
Urban planning initiatives should adopt participatory The rapid urbanization and economic development
approaches that involve residents in decision-making in Jinan have created distinct dynamics between rural
processes, enabling local communities to address their enclaves and the urban center. Modernization, propelled
specific health and sanitation needs (Moser, 2016). by globalization and technological innovation, is
Collaborative efforts among government agencies, non- significantly transforming rural communities, leading to
profit organizations, and community-based groups can profound social, economic, and cultural shifts (Escobar,
facilitate the development of sustainable, context-specific 2011). In Jinan, enhanced connectivity, market integration,
solutions for Jinan’s informal settlements (UN-Habitat, and agricultural modernization have brought elements of
2019). Strengthening social connections and fostering urban life to rural areas. However, these changes often
collective action within these communities can enhance exacerbate existing vulnerabilities and inequalities in rural
resilience and promote sustainable solutions to urban regions, intensifying marginalization (Orrù, 2018).
health challenges (Kaplan et al., 2015). Theories of marginality provide valuable insights into
To achieve sustainable enhancements in urban the power dynamics and exclusionary mechanisms that
sanitation and well-being, it is imperative to tackle the perpetuate rural poverty and inequality in Jinan’s context.
root causes of urban informality, including socioeconomic Sen (2001) defines marginality as the state of being
disparities, poverty, and inadequate housing regulations excluded from social, economic, and spatial opportunities,
(Davis, 2016). Urban development plans must also highlighting the challenges faced by marginalized rural
incorporate a comprehensive understanding of the social, communities in accessing resources and participating
economic, and political dynamics underlying informal in decision-making processes. In Jinan, rural enclaves

Volume 7 Issue 3 (2025) 9 https://doi.org/10.36922/jcau.3517