Spatial peripheries, social peripheries: reflections on the “suburbs” of Paris

Abstract

In this paper we seek to contribute to debates on disadvantage and social exclusion by examining the evolution of the concept of 'periphery', with specific reference to Paris. We draw on research undertaken on the 'suburbs' Paris in order to highlight some of the socio-spatial dimensions of social exclusion. The notion of periphery has evolved from being a purely spatial concept, to a functional concept, and during the crises of the 1980s it became a key social concept in France. Today, it is the absence of employment, or common values which characterises those who make up a social periphery. It is the unwaged, or the poor (in waged work or retirees), and immigrants, who live in the Parisian socio-suburban periphery.

Faith-Based Voluntary Action: A Case Study of a French Charity+

“…The organisation is located in suburban Paris (cf. Montagné Villette, 2004;Montagné Villette and Hardill, 2007), one of the key clusters of Muslims in France (Cesari, 1994); it is active locally and internationally. There is a growing awareness of the importance of the international development work of faith-based charities, including Islamic charities (Clarke, 2006 Fouquet et al, 1990).…”