The 37. AESOP Congress

The world is facing a convergence of unprecedented crises, ranging from escalating climate change and environmental degradation to widespread social and economic inequities. These global challenges have been exacerbated by decades of growth-oriented development models that have often prioritized economic gains over ecological sustainability and social justice. As a result, inequalities—both social and spatial—have deepened, further marginalizing vulnerable populations and threatening the stability of ecosystems on which all life depends.

The growing frequency of extreme climate events, pandemics like COVID-19, international conflicts, homelessness, unemployment, urban refugees, and food insecurity are not isolated issues but interconnected symptoms of a much larger planetary crisis. At the heart of this crisis is a socio-economic system that continues to rely on unsustainable practices, reinforcing deep-seated inequalities and social exclusion. These dynamics underscore the urgent need to rethink the relationship between economic growth, environmental sustainability, and socio-spatial justice.

In this age of planetary crisis, the time has come to move beyond the narrow focus on growth as a measure of success. It is critical to shift our thinking and adopt alternative approaches that prioritize the people and the planet. Spatial planning can serve as a transformative tool to address the urgent need for equitable, inclusive, and resilient cities that provide care for all their inhabitants while remaining within the ecological limits of our planet.

The 37th AESOP Congress, "Planning as a Transformative Action in an Age of Planetary Crisis," in Istanbul seeks to address these interconnected challenges through the lens of spatial justice, ethics and care. We aim to foster a dialogue on how planning can become a vehicle for addressing not only environmental crises but also the socio-spatial inequalities that exist within cities and regions. Planning has the power to reshape urban environments to ensure that access to resources, public spaces, and opportunities are distributed more equitably. We will explore the role of spatial planning as a transformative tool to foster sustainable development while prioritizing ecological and social justice. We aim to connect ecological priorities with social justice goals, thereby bridging the gap between environmental sustainability and the need for equitable, inclusive, and resilient communities.

The Congress will serve as a unique forum to discuss and reimagine planning as a crucial agent of change. We aim to inspire innovative approaches that pave the way for transformative action toward cities and societies that are more just and sustainable for all.

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