Raed Najjar

By Raed Najjar

This chapter discusses theoretical reviews about urban space theory, the paradoxical roles of spatial planning, and introduces a revolutionary definition for sustainability, namely, the four-dimensional spatial sustainability (4DSS) model. Interestingly, the empirical section in this chapter underlines the links that emerge when addressing spatial critical transformations accorded by interconnected spatial relations when attached to conflict areas, mainly: planning, power, and politics, the (3P) concept. Theories pertaining to spatial planning and sustainable development have substantially evolved during the past century. However, both of these themes still remain underestimated and require further investigation when exploring conflict regions. Spatial planning in conflict zones requires forming fast-changing spatial policies accompanying the creation of irreversibly altered urban fabrics that generate in many cases drastic challenges for inhabitants, especially for the indigenous residents when considered a minority group. Therefore, clarifying the relationships between the 3P and 4DSS is a central issue in this chapter. Understanding these relationships reveals the range of political influence upon the role of planning and its objectives. In Jerusalem, the aforementioned interrelationships have generated a deeply divided city, where dramatic spatial and demographic changes have adversely affected the lives of Palestinians, threatening their presence and, by consequence, their identity.

Part of the book: Land Use

By Raed Najjar

Polarized spaces and divided cities present a set of fast-changing urban policies and control powers. Of its tense history of complex spatial planning and land-use management, Jerusalem is not an exception. In less than 50 years, 1917–1967, Jerusalem was controlled by four variant regimes. The Ottoman Rule, the British Mandate, the Jordanian Control, and the Israeli Occupation respectively. In that sense, Jerusalem is considered a unique spatial entity in terms of its historical and physical development. This chapter explores the evolution of urban planning and land-use management in Jerusalem for these administrative authorities, underlining its impact on the city population and urban growth. During these subsequent administrative transformations, Jerusalem has witnessed quick and variant planning paradigms, and questionable development patterns, that produced numerous socio-spatial challenges. Principally, the altered composition of the population, as well as the paradoxical urban fabric of the city. Indeed, the successive authorities in Jerusalem, ending with the Israeli occupation of the eastern part of the city, have created a maze of wide-ranging rules and regulations, making the planning system complex, spatially unsustainable, and eventually in many ways, intensifying urban conflicts.

Part of the book: Land-Use Management

By Raed Najjar

Business analysis, economic growth, and customer behavior in conflict areas have specific characteristics associated with various challenges. While “stability” plays a fundamental role in the various components of economic growth and prosperity, the repeated absence of this “variable” in conflict areas becomes a key criterion and a critical factor affecting the entire economic cycle. Self-ethics, patriotic feelings, and local values are other essential and decisive factors that are becoming increasingly important. Despite the extensive literature on the theory of competitive advantage, there is a lack of information regarding its application in areas of conflict. This research helps to fill this critical gap. In conflict areas, normal market processes and the rule of law can suddenly break down, so that market players turn to other criteria to determine their behavior. It is therefore more important than ever to understand the role of “patriotic sentiments and ethics” in forming new economic trends and more responsible customer behavior in conflict areas, thus shaping what the author conceptualizes as the “competitive advantage in conflict areas” (CACA). This chapter focuses on the local Palestinian context, which suffers from divergent customer attitudes and unstable growth models due to the illegal Israeli occupation that led to the long-lasting Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Part of the book: Business Ethics - The Competitive Advantage of Trust and Reputation [Working title]