The modern mahala: making and living in Romania’s postsocialist slum

Abstract

Almost 30 years have passed since state-socialism came to an end, and several scholars sought to establish how the Romanian housing market has unfolded within a changing economic context and a strongly altered welfare system. This paper considers the most disadvantaged postsocialist groups in Romanian society and aims to advance our understanding of the housing situation in newly concentrated poor urban spaces. In developing such analysis, this article draws on local insights from Ferentari, a neighborhood in Bucharest where most residents I spoke saw a gradual degradation of their dwelling and living environment and do not expect any improvement soon. Not surprisingly, a strong indifference toward present-day politics and a potentially better and more inclusive space has colonized most minds. By studying their housing conditions and socioeconomic situation, this article aims to illuminate the sudden emergence and diverse character of Romania’s underprivileged neighborhoods: the modern mahalas.