The city is a spatial dimension where we live, and where complex human relationships and organizations take place. Indeed, the most important phenomenon that stands out as a unit of life under the influence of globalization is urbanization. Urbanization is considered one of the most important indicators of the economic, political, and social transformation processes of modern societies. The urbanization process, which accelerated with the migration from rural areas to cities, especially after the 1950s, has brought with it problems such as unplanned growth, spatial inequality, and informal settlements in developing countries. Paralel to this, the increasing population of large cities has brought the need for housing to the forefront, and the inability to meet this housing need has led to the spread of informal settlements and increased the need for housing policies. Initially considered only a housing problem, the informal settlement phenomenon has gradually transformed into a multifaceted social issue with economic, cultural, political, and spatial dimensions.

This chapter theoretically examines the concepts of urbanization and informal settlements in Turkey, analyzing their political dimensions and evaluating their historical development. Subsequently, the informal settlement phenomenon is analyzed within the framework of its causes, consequences, and state policies. Furthermore, urban transformation policies implemented after 2000, TOKİ (Housing Development Administration of Turkey) projects, neoliberal urbanization processes, and spatial segregation issues are discussed. The informal settlement problem in Turkey is not solely due to unplanned construction; it is directly related to income inequality, neoliberal economic policies, political populism, and inadequate social housing policies.