2007年-世界发展银行全球_Urban_Novostroiki_Settlements_in_Bishkek_Kyrgyz_Republic___Issues_and_Options_50页_2mb

Summary of URBAN "NOVOSTROIKI" SETTLEMENTS IN BISHKEK, KYRGYZ REPUBLIC

Core Content

This document presents an analysis of novostroiki (self-built settlements) in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, focusing on their residents, living conditions, and the challenges they face. The study, conducted in 2005, surveyed 493 households across nine novostroiki areas established between 1989 and 1991, and was part of an initiative by the World Bank to support improved living conditions for these communities.

Main Findings

1. The Importance of Novostroiki

• Novostroiki are a significant and growing issue in Bishkek, where over one-quarter of the city's population resides.
• These settlements were first created in 1989 by the city elite, who pressured the government for land. The government responded by allocating unserviced plots to households, leading to the rapid expansion of these areas.
• The population in Bishkek and its surrounding novostroiki areas is estimated to be around 1 to 1.2 million, with some areas growing by 35-40% from 1989-1996.

2. Demographics of Novostroiki Residents

• Households in novostroiki are similar in size to national averages, with an average of 4.4 members.
• Fewer pensioners and more two-parent households are found in novostroiki compared to the national average, suggesting a more economically active population.
• The percentage of households headed by women is lower in novostroiki (15%) than in national surveys (33-34%), due to the absence of male migrants who often work abroad.

3. Migration Patterns

• The majority of novostroiki residents are rural migrants from distant oblasts.
• About 85% of surveyed households originated from outside Chui oblast/Bishkek city area, with Naryn oblast being the most common source.
• Migration is driven by the pursuit of better economic opportunities and education for children.

4. Education and Employment

• Educational attainment varies significantly among novostroiki areas. Kolmo and Ak-Tilek have the highest levels of higher education (over 70% of adults), while Archa-Beshik and Kasym have the lowest (less than 50%).
• Employment is predominantly informal or non-existent, with only 15% of adults holding formal jobs. Most are engaged in unskilled labor or small-scale trading.
• Income inequality is substantial, with the highest quintile earning more than six times the lowest.

5. Living Conditions and Infrastructure

• Environmental hazards such as ash, poor drainage, and flooding are common and impact health.
• Basic infrastructure like water, sanitation, electricity, and transportation is inadequate, even in older novostroiki.
• Schools are scarce and overcrowded, with preschools generally unavailable.

6. Legal Status and Registration Issues

• Legal registration of land, housing, and residency is a major barrier for novostroiki residents.
• The "regular" process involves legal land allocation and registration, while the "irregular" process involves illegal occupation and construction, leading to high risk of eviction.
• Lack of registration prevents access to social benefits, healthcare, and education services.

Key Challenges

• Environmental hazards affect health and livelihoods.
• Inadequate infrastructure limits access to clean water, sanitation, and electricity.
• Limited educational and health services hinder development and quality of life.
• Legal uncertainties prevent residents from fully utilizing their property rights and accessing social protections.

Recommendations and Strategic Questions

• The study highlights the need for policy interventions to address the legal, social, and infrastructural challenges faced by novostroiki residents.
• It suggests that improving legal registration and infrastructure access is critical for long-term development and integration.
• There is a call for better coordination between government, NGOs, and local communities to support sustainable development in these areas.

Conclusion

Novostroiki represent a complex and growing phenomenon in Bishkek, shaped by migration, economic opportunity, and legal challenges. While some areas are more developed than others, many residents face significant difficulties in accessing basic services and legal protections. Addressing these issues is essential for improving living standards and ensuring long-term stability in the city's expanding informal settlements.