This talk takes place within the framework of the project "Towards a Reinvention of Development Theory -Theorizing Post-Development", a project concerned with overcoming the present paradigmatic crisis in development theory through a systematic theorization of post-development approaches.
The presentation will address some key ideas and concepts put forward by Post-Development, particularly the formulation of a profound criticism of development discourse, analysing how the way in which this criticism was formulated helped to understand the impossibility of achieving a better life within its framework and the need to be hospitable and attentive to other possibilities.
Based on her experience as former Ombudswoman in Montevideo, Uruguay, Ana Agostino will also present examples of policy recommendations addressing urban issues, which were formulated in line with some of the ideas and proposals from Post-Development. They relate as well to peoples participation in policy formulation, offering the opportunity to debate around the role of policies in generating enabling environments to move from mainstream sustainable development to the sustainability of life.
