Inthis part, examines the historical development of the urbanization process in Türkiye, particularly within the context of urbanization challenges that intensified after 1950 due to industrialization and internal migration. The legal and institutional framework of urban transformation is analyzed through the changing roles of local and central governments, relevant legal regulations, and implementation processes. The study critically assesses how Türkiye’s centralized governance approach limits the authority and resources of local administrations and explores the impacts of this dynamic on urban transformation projects. Additionally, social, economic, and spatial problems emerging during the urban transformation process are evaluated, alongside the resistance mechanisms employed by local communities, emphasizing the need for participatory and sustainable urban governance. The aim is to provide a comprehensive assessment of urbanization and urban transformation processes in Türkiye and to develop proposals for addressing existing challenges. Urbanization in Türkiye represents a complex process where not only spatial transformation but also the social structure and power relations are reshaped. The rapid urbanization after 1950, coupled with migration and industrialization, has led to the widespread emergence of unplanned settlements. State policies have predominantly adopted a top-down, neoliberal approach, restructuring cities in favor of capital, thereby deepening spatial inequalities. The weak decision-making power and fiscal autonomy of local governments have limited public participation in the urban transformation process. Consequently, collective struggles by neighborhood residents against urban transformation projects have foregrounded demands for spatial justice and democratic participation. These movements arise as reactions to the social exclusion generated by neoliberal urbanization and the inadequacies of local governance. While local governments in Türkiye remain critical actors in solving urban problems, their authority and resources are constrained by centralized policies and legislation. In contrast, the global trend towards strengthening local governments and increasing public participation in urban governance is regarded as a significant path toward creating more democratic and equitable cities. Within this framework, the study aims to address urbanization processes through the lenses of social justice, local democracy, and resistance movements.