ABSTRACT
The contribution of transnational activism to changing shelter policies, practices and practices has been described elsewhere in this volume. This chapter contributes to understanding of transnational activism through reflecting on some potential explanations for its effectiveness in advancing progressive urban development. I focus here on international exchanges and examine why this form of transnational activism continues to be a priority for both the international networks discussed in this volume, the Asian Coalition for Housing Rights (ACHR), and the Shack/Slum Dwellers International (SDI). Why, in the sector of shelter, do two major civil society networks believe that transnational activism moves forward state policy-making and helps it to be more pro-poor i.e. more inclusive 1 of all citizens?
