Analysis of migratory impact on segregation and unplanned urban growth in the La Revancha sector

Original Article

Abstract

This study analyzes the impact of migratory dynamics on the formation of the informal settlement La Revancha, located on the northeastern periphery of the city of Manta, Ecuador. Through a mixed methodological approach—both quantitative and qualitative—the main factors influencing the disorganized growth of the area are identified, as well as the urban implications of unplanned territorial expansion. Official secondary sources, semi-structured interviews with neighborhood leaders, long-term residents, and municipal technicians, as well as participant observation and georeferenced photographic records, were used. The results show that the expansion of La Revancha is mainly driven by internal migration processes motivated by economic crises and a housing deficit in consolidated urban areas. Informality in land tenure, limited access to basic services, and exclusion from the urban planning system have generated an environment of high social and physical vulnerability. The observed socio-spatial segregation is the result of a lack of coordination between population growth and public policies on land-use planning. The study concludes that La Revancha is a representative case of marginal urbanization that requires urgent attention through inclusive and sustainable planning. It highlights the need to design comprehensive strategies that recognize the right to the city, strengthen territorial governance, and reduce urban inequality. The research provides valuable inputs for replicating the analysis in similar contexts throughout Ecuador and Latin America.