Gender, domestic space, and urban upgrading: A case study from Amman

Abstract

This article examines an urban upgrading project in two squatter areas in Amman. Through the project, the state asserted its control of every part of women's lives, addressing most aspects of private and public life in the targeted communities. Women responded by using the powerful language and symbols of domesticity and femininity in successfully dealing with public agencies and personnel to turn the project to their advantage.