Author: Pauline

It was a privilege to meet with Lord Kamall, Shadow Minister (Health and Social Care) this week, to discuss the findings of our book “Urban Life in Delhi Slums: Stories of Community Solutions and Resilience“. The book sets out the empirical data gathered during our Rising Tide research project. Drawing on the extensive qualitative and quantitative data from the grassroots and providing voices to the residents and communities becoming part of their daily lives really brings the book to life. The book provides a detailed assessment of spaces and networks. It demonstrates the effect governance systems and institutional agreements have on enterprise, empowerment, resilience, trust, dignity and engaging in a life that has purpose and meaning.

Around one-quarter of the world’s urban population live in informal, slum and squatter settlements, representing a significant economic and cultural force. Despite this, settlements are often perceived as marginal, homogenous places, overlooking the resilience and agency of the diverse actors, networks and social groups working collectively within them. This book draws on extensive qualitative and quantitative data from squatter and resettlement colonies in and around Delhi, foregrounding the voices of residents to build a bottom-up picture of place and urban development. The book analyses the contexts in which households operate within their communities and the adaptiveness of individuals living in different slum types, with differing levels of governance. In doing so, the book demonstrates the effect which different institutional agreements and governance systems have on enterprise, empowerment, resilience, trust, dignity and engaging in life that has purpose and meaning.

Professor Pauline Dixon and Dr Steve Humble were invited by the President of the Medical Society of London, Dr Susie West, to give a talk around the Rising Tide project’s findings concerning well-being and place and space. On Monday 28th April 2025 Pauline and Steve presented to around 60 members who asked questions about the Delhi settlements and healthcare and other services provided depending upon settlement type after the presentation and supper.

Steve and Pauline paid a visit to the House of Lords on Thursday 5th September for discussions around the Rising Tide project and findings. Further meetings with members are in the pipe line so watch this space!

In 2022 on the 100th year anniversary of the University Women’s Club, London, Mayfair Pauline was made an Honorary member in recognition of her work in International Development. One of only three Honorary bestowments. Pauline was invited to give a Library talk on September 4th around her research for Club members.

Watch Pauline’s talk from Liechtenstein University around the Rising Tide project and the work on flourishing, dignity and life with purpose and meaning in the slums of Delhi.