These are the neighbourhoods where the transition from poverty occurs, where the next middle class is forged, where the next generation’s dreams, movements and governments are created. It’s where large agrarian families give way to small urban ones, putting an end to the major theme of human history, continuous population growth. These are the places where the next great cultural boom will be born, or where the next great explosion of violence will occur. The difference depends on our ability to notice, and our willingness to engage.
Doug Saunders, Arrival City
By the people, for the people
Cité Soleil slum, Port-au-Prince, Haiti © Mark Edwards/Still Pictures
