Welfare (Inadequacy of)

‘Welfare’ and ‘welfare state’ does not have a definitive meaning, as it needs to be negotiated collectively every time, in a process of continuous socio-political reformulation. The relationship between welfare and the city is crucial but multifaceted. The welfare state crisis and downturn in urban growth, with the consequent emergence of urban regeneration issues, have highlighted the necessity of reforming and adapting the existing welfare system, in its material and immaterial aspects. In this reflection, the notion of ‘territorial fragilities’ can add new elements for a better appreciation of the connection between welfare and the territory, especially in times of crisis. On the one hand, it is possible to consider facilities in territories and areas where different forms of social, economic and spatial fragility combine. On the other hand, the physical legacy of welfare can be described as a fragile urban element in itself. At the same time, it is a significant social fixed capital that can be exploited strategically to promote projects and policies for urban regeneration.