Analysis of contextual factors influencing the development of unplanned settlements: The case of Herat City, Afghanistan

In Afghanistan, unplanned settlements are developed without government intervention. Several factors contribute to the appearance of these settlements, with studies indicating that over 70% of Afghanistan's cities lack proper planning. The aim of this study was to investigate contextual factors influencing the formation of unplanned settlements in Herat City using a qualitative research approach and semi-structured interviews. A variety of factors contributed significantly to the proliferation of unplanned settlements in Herat, including rapid urban population growth, poverty, corruption, bureaucratic obstacles, inadequate urban management capacity, a lack of citizen participation in urban planning, insufficient government support for low-income housing, the absence of clear legal frameworks for land ownership and housing, and cultural influences.