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Residents' Perceptions of Gentrification and Related Changes: a Study of Smíchov and Karlín
Columby, Nikola ; Ouředníček, Martin (advisor) ; Kubeš, Jan (referee)
Gentrification is an urban process gone global with many permutations and local specifics. This master's thesis analyses how residents are perceiving gentrification in rapidly developing, post- industrial, inner-city neighbourhoods of Prague - Smíchov and Karlín. The thesis is based on the concept of gentrification as planetary phenomenon that is anchored in a post-socialist context of contemporary Prague. The integral process of displacement is understood as direct but also symbolic, as an attachment to one's neighbourhood. Perception, an individual's filter of understanding and dealing with the world, is used to capture nuances, experiences, and feelings. Using interviews, the thesis seeks to answer the following questions using the underutilized perceptions of regular citizens. How are residents perceiving gentrification and the related changes? Where are residents placing gentrification? Are these findings the same in Smíchov and Karlín or are there differences in the perceptions? Gentrification and displacement are palpable urban processes that the respondents perceive as having changed the neighbourhoods in an impactful way. Karlín is seen as gentrified, whereas in Smíchov the situation is more nuanced. The group most clearly identified as being displaced are the Roma. The gentrifiers are...
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The life of ex-Yugoslavs in Prague: community relations and integration
Columby, Nikola ; Klsák, Adam (advisor) ; Janská, Eva (referee)
This thesis studies the spatial distribution, integration and the diasporic nature of the ex-Yugoslav community living in Czechia and Prague. Theoretical concepts used are community studies, transnationalism, segregation, diasporic communities, and integration. Compared to other ethnic minorities in Czechia, ex-Yugoslavs are generally overlooked by research in social science. This immigrant generation is also the first instance of war refugees coming to Czechia in its modern history. The study of ex-Yugoslavs in the Czech society can potentially be useful for the future (research) of migration to Czechia. The first part of the thesis provides statistical data and a brief history of migration from the Balkans. This is followed up with the qualitative part of the thesis, where 13 ex- Yugoslavs are interviewed as a case study. The responses are coded and interpreted along with quotes. Ex-Yugoslavs display a preference for bigger cities, especially for Prague where they concentrate in the city centre, from whence their numbers radially decrease. The ex-Yugoslav community in Prague displays certain diasporic aspects, a "Yugoslav spirit" and a coexistence among nationalities. Many ex- Yugoslavs came here fleeing war and economic troubles. They have been successfully integrated and many have children,...
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