Settlement Strategies Research Articles

Civil society actors and conflict management in Moldova

The article focuses on the role of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe and its efforts, in collaboration with local NGOs, in bringing about conflict resolution in the Republic of Moldova. The OSCE has been active in the Republic of Moldova for the last twenty years and has been working with NGOS from both sides of the Dniester/ Nistru river. While the process has met with several challenges over the years, the recent full-fledged war against Ukraine has complicated the strategy for conflict settlement of the Transdniestrian conflict even more. The main goal of this article is to present and analyse various forms of cooperation between the OSCE and local civil society actors and to identify activities which encourage confidence-building. To this end, we will discuss relevant conceptual approaches in the field of Conflict Resolution and focus on mediation, conflict transformation, conflict settlement, and reconciliation. Moreover, we will explore activities of civil society organizations which are engaged in dialogue and collaboration with the OSCE. Methodologically, the article is built around a constructivist theorizing and the main argument is that the Transdniestrian conflict is an identity conflict and reconciling the parties, from grass-root level upwards to community leaders, ensures identity transformation and confidence building. The latter are key aspects in fostering trust, dialogue, and conflict management.

SETTLEMENT OF PROBLEM FINANCING THROUGH THE EXECUTION OF MORTGAGE AUCTIONS AT THE STATE WEALTH AND AUCTION SERVICE OFFICE AT BANK ACEH SYARIAH SISINGAMANGARAJA BRANCH OFFICE

The decline in the customer's business triggers non-performing financing where the customer is not good at managing his business so that he cannot fulfill his obligations to pay existing financing, and the lack of prudence in analyzing customer data is also a negligence for the bank so that it increases the amount of non-performing financing every year. This research was conducted in order to find out what factors cause non-performing financing, and how the settlement strategy is in bank aceh syariah. This research uses a descriptive qualitative research method with a case study approach to gain an in-depth understanding of the case under study, namely the settlement of problematic financing in a mortgage auction through KPKNL. While the data source of this research uses primary data, namely those obtained during interviews and observation activities to related informants, while secondary data is in the form of documents and previous literature. The results of the study found that the factors causing problematic financing are internal factors, namely the bank itself, and external factors that exist in the customer service. And the settlement carried out by Bank Aceh Syariah is by deliberation, billing, rescheduling, re-requirement, rearrangement, and execution of collateral.

Retos habitacionales de la inmigración venezolana en Iquique y Alto Hospicio: Explorando bibliográficamente y sobre el terreno estrategias y barreras

Recent migratory dynamics, such as the Venezuelan humanitarian crisis and the increase in entries through unauthorized border crossings, have transformed the landscape of the Tarapacá region, in Chile, intensifying housing challenges such as limited access to adequate housing, which often leads to settlement in precarious camps (informal settlements). This article explores the perceptions of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and state institutions regarding Venezuelan migration and its housing challenges in Iquique and Alto Hospicio. The analysis identifies three key dimensions: administrative and legal barriers that perpetuate migratory irregularity, settlement strategies in contexts considered of extreme vulnerability, such as some informal settlements in Alto Hospicio, and social and symbolic barriers linked to the criminalisation and territorial stigmatisation of irregular migration. The findings reveal both convergences and divergences with academic literature. On the one hand, the dynamism of camps as spaces of agency and the consolidation of housing trajectories are highlighted. However, some CSOs perceive them as spaces of exclusion and criminalization, while also highlighting their role as initial entry points for migrants.

Transport Mobility Analysis for Informal Settlements in Dar es salaam, Tanzania

Dar es Salaam is one of the world’s fastest growing cities and is expected to be the third largest by 2100 with a population of 76 million. Dar es Salaam city is made of multiple neighbourhoods that are very diverse in terms of socio-economic status, gender, age and prevalent activities. One of the biggest challenges facing the city of Dar es Salaam is urban sprawl due to informal settlements that in turn leads to very long travel time and hinders equal mobility and accessibility of labour and goods. This study found that the current mobility vision for Dar es Salaam city that bases on transit-oriented development can help to alleviate transit pressure to the current mono-centric city, although integration of the vision to informal settlements that are the current majority of the land use is still lacking. The study also found that the current regularisation strategies of informal settlements provide an opportunity for urban mobility. However, the resulting mobility networks are not sufficient to meet the demand of the government mobility vision. To capture the future rapid population growth in the city, this study recommends a back casting strategy that looks on the future needs of the population including residency vis-à-vis mobility to establish current new transit corridors passing though redeveloped informal settlements.

High Hopes: On Settlement Strategies in the Tribeč Mountains (West Slovakia)

High Hopes: On Settlement Strategies in the Tribeč Mountains (West Slovakia)

An integrally formed Janus supramolecular bio-gel with intelligent adhesion for multifunctional healthcare

Despite the rapid development of Janus adhesive hydrogels, most of them still entail complex fabrication processes and have the inherent flaws, such as fragility and instability, thereby restricting their biomedical applications. In this study, a novel Janus bio-gel with strong mechanical and intelligent adhesion functions is facilely fabricated through a gravity-driven settlement strategy, employing poly-cyclodextrin microspheres (PCDMs). This strategy takes advantage of the sedimentation behavior of PCDMs with various diameters to establish structural disparities on both sides of the Janus bio-gel, thereby resolving multiple predicaments including the tedious synthesis steps and poor bonding of multilayer hydrogels. Owing to the multiple dynamic interactions between polymers and PCDMs, the Janus supramolecular bio-gel demonstrates outstanding mechanical toughness (1.97 MJ/m3) and elongation rate (≈800 %). More attractively, the resulting Janus bio-gel exhibits remarkable adhesiveness (316.4 J/m2 for interfacial toughness) and adhesive differences that are exceed 50 times between the two surfaces. Furthermore, the Janus supramolecular bio-gel also has excellent antibacterial properties, biocompatibility, environmental stability, and multiple monitoring functions, accelerating wound stably healing and monitoring physiologic parameters on the skin. This strategy provides a straightforward and promising approach to directly achieve multifunctional integration for smart health management.

A multi-embankment Chalcolithic walled enclosure

Ota, a key part of the Chalcolithic walled enclosure phenomenon in Portuguese Estremadura, represents a unique settlement strategy within the actual territory of Portugal. The architecture and social dynamics of this site remained largely unexplored until 2019. This study marks a significant shift in its study, utilizing a synergistic approach of archaeology and geotechnologies, embodied in the using an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle equipped with LiDAR. This innovative combination successfully penetrated the dense vegetation, revealing 21 previously unknown archaeological features. The results from the fieldwork unveiled a novel type of walled enclosure at Ota, characterized by a series of four embankments. This discovery prompts a re-evaluation of the roles and practices of 3rd millennium BC communities in Portuguese Estremadura. Furthermore, the proven efficacy of this methodology paves the way for its application in similar archaeological contexts. The paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the recent fieldwork, integrating interpretations from LiDAR data, material studies and 14C dating.

Settlement Suitability Analysis: The Case of Bursa City

Abstract: Nowadays, the existing built-up area texture in cities has started to shift towards areas that are not suitable for settlement. In this sense, settlement suitability analyses play a critical role in the realisation of sustainable development goals. Detailed analyses are required to formulate an effective settlement strategy in regions with large and diverse natural features such as Bursa. In this study, in order to determine the areas suitable for settlement in the study area, which covers the borders of Osmangazi, Nilüfer and Yıldırım districts, which are the central districts of Bursa city, a settlement suitability analysis was carried out with the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method using 9 parameters consisting of slope, elevation, lithology, land use, precipitation, temperature, distance to stream, distance to fault and erosion. The main underlying data used in the study are 10m resolution Digital Elevation Model (DEM), lithology, land use, erosion, precipitation, and temperature (WorldClim) data of Bursa city. As a result of the analysis, it was determined that 9% of the city is very suitable, 44% is less suitable and 47% is not suitable. The area where the city was established is in very suitable and moderate suitable class. It is observed that the settlements established in the study area, especially in the areas close to the fault line and the main river branch, are in the moderate suitability class. In addition, it has been determined that the erosion risk is in the low class, and the settlements far from the main river branch and fault line are in the very favourable class. While it is observed that Bursa city is located at appropriate values in terms of topography, it is seen that especially the southern part of the city is not sufficiently suitable in terms of distance to fault lines. The results obtained aim to contribute to sustainable settlement planning and to provide a guide for the methods and processes to be used in settlement suitability analysis.

Revisiting moated sites in Northeast Thailand: integrating spatial analysis with previous and new research insights

Moated sites in northeast Thailand serve as pivotal evidence of human–environment interaction since the Iron Age and have been subject to extensive study. This research conducts a comprehensive examination of moated sites, aiming to analyze their spatial characteristics and relationships with physical environmental factors across various scales, including regional and major river basins. To achieve these goals, advanced GIS tools including average nearest neighbor (ANN) analysis, kernel density estimation (KDE), standard deviational ellipse (SDE) analysis, and the Kruskal–Wallis test are employed. By incorporating a dataset of 468 moated sites and expanding the geographic scope beyond previous studies, this research offers new insights into settlement patterns and environmental interactions. Contrary to earlier interpretations suggesting random dispersion, the study’s findings reveal a clustering pattern, indicating intentional spatial organization by ancient communities. The study also highlights the influence of rainfall on the number of moats, with multiple moats more common in lower rainfall areas and single moats in higher rainfall regions. Additionally, the results observe that sites with more moats are typically found at higher elevations, although no significant correlation between elevation and site size was identified, challenging previous studies' conclusions. These results underscore the importance of local environmental conditions, such as rainfall and elevation, in shaping the distribution and characteristics of moated sites. The findings highlight the complex interplay between environmental factors and human settlement strategies, emphasizing the role of water management in ancient communities.

PERAN KEPEMIMPINAN ADAT DALAM PENYELESAIAN PIUTANG BUWUH DI DUSUN GUNUNG MALANG KABUPATEN PASURUAN

Abstract This article discusses the important role of Indigenous leadership in debt settlement in Gunung Malang Hamlet, Pasuruan Regency. Buwuhan debt, which is based on local indigenous traditions, has become a serious problem in the region, creating significant economic and social pressure. This study uses a qualitative approach with a case study method to identify the role of Indigenous leadership, strategies used, and community responses to debt settlement efforts. The results showed that adat leadership plays an important role as a mediator and facilitator in debt settlement Buhuhan. They use a deliberative and mutual aid approach to find a fair solution for all parties involved. Although faced with obstacles and challenges, Buwuhan debt settlement efforts led by Indigenous leadership are considered effective by the community in general. The community's positive response to the role of Indigenous leadership reflects recognition of the moral authority and influence that Indigenous leadership has in mediating and resolving conflicts related to the Buhuhan debt. This research has important implications both academically and practically. Theoretically, this study enriches the understanding of the role of Indigenous leadership in debt settlement Buwuhan, while in practical terms, the implications can help in the development of debt settlement strategies Buwuhan more effective in Pasuruan and other regions facing similar problems. Keywords: Indigenous leadership, debt settlement Buwuhan, Mount Malang Hamlet, Pasuruan, deliberation

Spatial Syntactic Analysis and Revitalization Strategies for Rural Settlements in Ethnic Minority Areas: A Case Study of Shuanglang Town, China

Understanding the spatial morphological characteristics and driving factors of rural settlements in ethnic minority areas is crucial for the conservation and tourism development of ethnic villages. Accordingly, this study employs Shuanglang Town, China as a case study, adopting an integrated approach that combines spatial syntax analysis, the optimal parameter geodetector model, and GIS spatial analysis techniques. This comprehensive methodology systematically investigates the spatial morphological features, differentiation characteristics, and influencing factors of ethnic villages. The findings reveal the logical lineage and formation mechanisms underlying the overall layout, street network, and public spaces of the villages. Specifically, the results demonstrate (1) a discernible gradation in spatial configurations, transitioning from compact “back mountain villages” in the northeast to more dispersed “seaside villages” in the southwest, with notable disparities in accessibility among different villages; (2) topography, water distribution, and water quality as the dominant factors shaping village spatial patterns; (3) the interactive and heterogeneous effects of multiple natural and anthropogenic factors, including topography, water resources, agricultural practices, and ethnic cultural traditions, significantly influencing the spatial morphology of villages; and (4) common principles governing the site selection of different ethnic village typologies, reflecting the villagers’ understanding and intelligent utilization of the natural environment. This study contributes to comprehending the spatial characteristics of rural settlements in ethnic minority areas and provides a theoretical and practical foundation for advancing analogous rural revitalization initiatives. The findings offer insights into the spatial logic and formation processes of ethnic villages, informing conservation efforts and sustainable tourism development strategies.

Settlement Selection Strategic Analysis for Self-Operated E-Commerce Platforms under Market Competition

This paper focuses on the settlement selection strategic analysis for self-operated e-commerce platforms on hybrid e-commerce platforms under market competition. Taking factors such as the market share, price competition, commission, and customer loyalty into account, a multi-leader–follower game model with the platforms as leaders and the manufacturers as followers is established. Then, we solve the model with the help of some mathematical techniques and describe some numerical experiments to analyze settlement strategies for the self-operated platforms and their impact on other members in the network. The numerical results reveal the following revelations: a lower commission rate is more suitable for the self-operated platforms; once the commission rates are determined, the self-operated platforms prefer to settle in the hybrid platforms under lower medium price competition; when the price competition is fierce, as customer loyalty increases, the self-operated platforms should settle with a low market share; if the self-operated platforms settle in the hybrid platforms, then a higher price competition is advantageous for all members and can facilitate supply chain coordination.

Aggregative versus solitary settlement in Spirobranchus cariniferus gray, 1843 (serpulinae). What is the trade-off?

Sessile marine invertebrates usually follow a distinct pattern of living in dense aggregations or as solitary individuals. However, at least some serpulins, including Spirobranchus cariniferus, seem to be able to settle aggregative or solitary. To understand how living solitary or in aggregation is beneficial, it is essential to understand the advantages and disadvantages of both settlement strategies for sessile invertebrates. Benefits of living in aggregations include securing suitable habitat, improving the probability of survival by mitigating physical stress and increasing reproductive success.However, living in patches also comes with some disadvantages for the individual, such as higher intra- and interspecific competition for food, space and oxygen. Increased physiological stress can lead to increased mortality and decreased reproductive success, whereas solitary individuals could produce more gametes because of a lack of competition for food and space. On the other hand, predators would have easier access to them, and the possibility of fertilisation success may be lower because of a lack of synchronisation and a greater distance between individuals of different sexes.These issues have not been sufficiently addressed, particularly for serpulids. Individuals of the New Zealand endemic polychaete Spirobranchus cariniferus can be found solitary and aggregative in the same habitat. Therefore, this study is the first on serpulids comparing the growth and mortality of individuals living alone or in aggregations. Hence, bi-monthly observation of mortality and growth measurements were conducted on tagged individuals in the field, and weekly observations were conducted in a laboratory-based study on individuals of both settlement configurations. A final comparison of body metrics to tube dimensions was made by removing an individual from their tube.My findings revealed that while solitary and aggregative individuals elongate their tubes at a similar rate, further correlations of the body to tube sizes lead to the conclusion that solitary worms focus more of their energy on tube growth rather than body size increment than aggregative conspecifics. Mortality is highly variable and seems not to differ between both configurations. However, individuals living in a patch can better recover from damage to their tubes. Here presented observations hopefully initiated further studies into the effects of aggregation size and density on individual growth. Results of this and subsequent studies can inform the management efforts for reefs of serpulins, bivalves and other invertebrates.

Rural Settlement Optimization for Ecologically Sensitive Area Evaluations Based on Geo-Proximity and the Soil‒Water Conservation Capacity

Rural communities in ecologically sensitive areas are confronted with environmental challenges and land waste. The hollowing out of villages because of the steady loss of young people has brought these problems to the fore. Research on the remediation of rural settlements in ecologically sensitive regions is scarce. This paper focuses on Tong Yu County, a region located in the agricultural and pastoral intertwined zones of western Jilin, which is known for its ecological sensitivity. On the basis of the results of the geographical assessment of the area via hierarchical analysis (AHP method)and soil and water conservation capacity evaluation via the revised universal soil loss equation model(RUSLE) and the net primary production quantitative index model(NPP model), we propose a rural development program that divides the study area into three different zones with different development orientations, namely, potential enhancement, agglomeration development, and expansion restrictions. Moreover, we conceived a rural settlement remediation scheme using the kernel density estimation method and provided remediation strategies for rural settlements of various density levels. The rural settlement development program and the rural settlement remediation scheme led to the optimization of rural settlements. Notably, with increasing kernel density, the area of rural settlements tends to increase and then decrease. Our research helps save 5.059 km2 of land resources in the study area and offers guidance for improving the rural settlement layout in Tong Yu County.

‘In the shadows of a giant?’ A spatial analytical method for assessing coastal proximity using R: a case-study from the Bronze Age Saronic Gulf (Greece)

Highlights: The study introduces novel methods in spatial analysis to reinterpret long-standing archaeological theories about settlement distribution Spatial analysis reveals fluctuating proximity of Bronze Age settlements to the coast in the Saronic Gulf, influenced by socio-cultural and climatic changes. Shifts in settlement patterns and external factors like the rise of Argolic centers reshaped Kolonna's influence, reorienting it towards its hinterlands. Abstract: This study explores the interrelation between settlement dynamics and coastal proximity during the Bronze Age in the Saronic Gulf, utilising an innovative spatial analytical approach. By integrating Geographic Information System (GIS) and statistical methods in R, this paper analyses a dataset comprising 258 archaeological sites across diverse coastal and inland environments. The methodology uses the Movecost package for R to calculate least-cost paths, quantifying the ease of access to coastlines, and enabling a nuanced interpretation of settlement patterns over time. Results indicate significant shifts in settlement patterns linked to socio-economic, climatic, and political changes. The early phases, particularly during Early Helladic II, show an increased distance from the coast, suggesting a period less reliant on maritime activities despite the existence of extensive maritime networks. Conversely, Early Helladic III and Middle Helladic III–Late Helladic II periods mark a more pronounced coastal orientation; in the first case, it was probably connected to climatic instability and survival strategies and, in the second one, connected to socio-political change and economic opportunities. The analysis challenges traditional views of constant coastal habitation. Instead, it reveals a complex pattern where coastal proximity was not solely dictated by maritime capabilities: it was a strategic choice influenced by a myriad of factors, including security, agricultural potential, external trade relations and climatic change. The rise and fall of Kolonna, a significant urban centre, underscores these dynamics, as shifts in its regional influence correlate with broader Aegean power structures and climatic events. This paper contributes to the understanding of how ancient societies adapted their settlement strategies in response to changing socio-political circumstances. It also demonstrates the potential of R and spatial statistics as powerful tools for archaeological inquiry, providing new perspectives on traditional interpretations of ancient settlement patterns.

Specific settlement strategies for two exploited limpet species (Patella aspera and P. ordinaria) using coralline algae and conditioned seawater

Crustose coralline algae (CCA) are strong settlement inducers for two exploited limpets, Patella aspera and Patella ordinaria (Patellogastropoda: Patellidae). This study evaluates CCA-conditioned seawater (CSW) as a settlement inducer for the same species through nine assays aimed at its concentration, preservation, production, and as a settlement enhancer for sub-optimal substrates. Two additional assays tested the affinity of limpet larvae to settle on CCA surfaces. Each limpet species showed specific requirements. Settlement of P. aspera was higher in CCA than in CSW, whereas the settlement of P. ordinaria was similar between CCA and CSW. Inductive properties of CSW were nullified by filtration (2.7 μm) and weakened by dilution, but little affected by different preservation methods up to 48 h (room temperature, refrigerated, and autoclave). CSW can be produced serially from different CCA assemblages and preserved frozen during several days. Each limpet species responded differently to CCA and CSW when combined with diatom biofilms. Specific strategies for post larval production are recommended. P. aspera could use CCA-coated structures as collectors designed for limpet settlers in animal production and recruits in the wild; while P. ordinaria may employ movable plates for settlement induction based on CSW. Settlers would require transport to nursery grounds for grow-out.

Managing Legal Disputes Through Alternative Disputes Resolution

Dispute management is an attempt to resolve a dispute or conflict through alternative dispute settlement strategies in a legal context. Alternative dispute resolution methods, such as negotiation, mediation, and arbitration have been widely used in dispute settlement in a variety of situations. The method of research carried out in this research is to discuss the related literature according to the title of the research. The results of this study conclude that alternative dispute settlement strategies can be an effective alternative to litigation in settling disputes. These alternative dispute methods provide advantages such as faster processes, and lower costs, and allow the parties involved to be more active in finding mutually beneficial solutions. In addition, alternative dispute settlement strategies can also help maintain relationships between the parties involved in the dispute. In mediation and negotiation, open communication and cooperation are promoted, which can avoid greater conflict and enable the building of better relations in the future. However, it is important to remember that alternative dispute settlement strategies are not always suitable for every situation. In some cases, litigation can still be the best option, especially when a dispute involves a complex issue or if one of the parties refuses to participate in an alternative settlement effort. Overall, dispute management and alternative dispute settlement strategies are important efforts in minimizing conflict and achieving a fair and beneficial settlement for all parties involved. Understanding the advantages, disadvantages, and appropriate context for using alternative dispute settlement strategies is key in navigating the dispute settlement process well.

Socio‐economic strategy for settlement of refugees amidst crisis: The case of Pak‐Afghan

AbstractToday, global concerns are at their peak due to the fast‐growing number of refugees. The world faces the dilemma of the refugee crisis, which needs to be addressed by the United Nations (U.N.) sustainable development goals (SDGs). Pakistan hosts about 1.4 million registered refugees in camps and urban areas. The majority consist of Afghans who departed due to severe poverty, conflict, and security concerns. These refugees bring socio‐economic distress to the host country. In order to comprehend the whole crisis, this study primarily focuses on three areas: the unstable political and security situation in the country of origin, the refugee concerns and their implications. This research is unique throughout the literature as it applies the interpretive structural modelling (ISM) tool to view the refugee crisis holistically. Results from ISM show that the ‘Political situation of Afghanistan’ is the most influential factor with very high driving power. Afterward, 10 resulting factors were opted from the ISM model, which demonstrate the implications on the host country. The relative importance index (RII) approach was used to rank the resultant factors. Ranking from RII depicts a significantly different impact of refugees while residing in urban areas. Using the Prisoner's dilemma of cooperative game theory (GT), this study concludes by recommending refugees to get registered and the host country to settle them in the local population. The use of cooperative GT with the nexus of ISM and RII is also exceptional and will be helpful for researchers and policymakers to resolve any conflict.

Housing and temporary legality: The evictability and settlement of refugees in Swedish municipalities

This article explores four Swedish municipalities which have reacted differently to legislation aiming to regulate a ‘fair and equal’ distribution of refugees: from barefaced rejection to the advocacy of refugee settlement as an investment in future citizens. Interviews with people who work with settlement show that housing is made central in different municipal strategies and creates an unequal landscape of evictability for refugees depending on where they are placed. Temporary and conditional residence permits for refugees, which have been made standard in this time of temporary legality, are simultaneously dependent on settlement strategies in municipalities: housing and access to jobs determine whether you can stay or stay with your family. This deportability of refugees is what is at stake. Yet access to housing is continuously treated as a mundane ‘service’: both in the categorical denial of housing and in the evaluation of what can qualify refugees to deserve settlement.

국·공유지를 점유한 무허가 정착지의 이주대책 중요 요인에 대한 전문가와 주민 간 비교 분석

This study aims to analyze the important factors of relocation strategies for informal settlements occupying national and communal lands. Using the Delphi technique and AHP analysis model, this study derived the importance and priority of 3 major factors and 12 sub-factors, and the results of comparative analysis between experts and residents are as follows. First, in the case of major factors, the priority of experts appeared in the order of institutional factors, economic factors, and project implementation factors, and the priority of residents was derived in the order of economic factors, institutional factors, and project implementation factors. Second, among the sub-factors of economic factors, experts showed that the payment of compensation is the most important factor, and residents derived the factor of compensation and arrears resolution as the most important. In the case of institutional factors, both experts and residents selected the factor of legislation and system establishment as the most important factor, but experts selected the installation of a dedicated department as the second priority, and residents judged the legal representative system as the second priority. In the case of project implementation factors, both experts and residents judged the transparent project factor as the most important factor. This study compared and analyzed the important factors of relocation strategies not only for experts but also for actual residents of informal settlements, and it can be seen that this provided effective policy implications for reducing gaps between subjects when establishing relocation strategies.