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The 3rd unit

The 3rd Unit: Social Inclusion

This unit has a strong focus on the mechanisms how to increase social inclusion, in particular, the mechanisms how to bring the homeless back to society. The unit explores what are the problems of the homeless and rough sleepers and how they can overcome their various obstacles and finally become financially self-sufficient and active members in society. The unit carries out a multiplicity of research activities from the perspectives of urban human geography, urban sociology, urban housing studies, etc. The unit is in cooperation with town-regeneration 'community development' (Machizukuri) groups such as the Kamagazaki community regeneration forum and the Kamagasaki studies and research association. In addition the unit has field research plazas.

Nishinari Plaza

The Nishinari Field Plaza is located in Kamagasaki, in Osaka's Nishinari Ward, the largest casual labor market in Japan. With the economic downturn and the aging of day laborers, the Kamagasaki neighborhood saw a drastic increase in rough sleepers beginning in the late 1990s.

Subsequently, there are many aid groups to provide livelihood assistance to the homeless and they have employed a variety of activities to improve housing, medical care, welfare, tourism, etc. At the Nishinari Field Plaza, the unit pursues a close involvement with the local community based around these many activities.

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