Integrated urban development towards mitigation social segregation and vulnerability

Abstract

This article investigates the role of European Union (EU) Cohesion Policy (2021–2027) integrated urban development (IUD) strategies in Portugal in supporting the reduction in social segregation and vulnerability. Mostly based on a literature review and field research, the research concludes that the analysed IUD devotes a minor financial support package to social segregation and vulnerability. Even so, the IUD strategies have contributed to supporting the active inclusion of vulnerable social groups, improving access to employment, skills, and qualifications for young and vulnerable social groups, reinforcing equal access to quality services and social protection, and promoting the active inclusion of socially vulnerable groups and social housing.