CONTRADICTIONS IN ZONING AND URBAN TRANSFORMATION PROCESSES IN THE CONTEXT OF THE CONCEPTS OF PARTICIPATION AND PROPERTY OWNERSHIP

Objective: This study aims to examine the contradictions between participation and property ownership in zoning and urban transformation processes in Turkey in historical, socio-spatial, and legal contexts, and to propose inclusive and sustainable solutions. The evolution of neighborhood autonomy from the Ottoman period to the present, the unfair nature of participation mechanisms, and the role of socio-economic segregation in urban fragmentation are discussed. Theoretical Framework: The study is based on the theories of organic neighborhood structures in the Ottoman Empire, centralization in the Republican era, and increasing socio-spatial segregation due to globalization. The UN's human-centered approach, the sustainability principles of the Egan Report, and legal frameworks such as the Condominium Law in Turkey support the theoretical foundation. Method: Quantitative data (TurkStat statistics apartment/apartment complex participation rates) and qualitative analyses (Turkey National Urban Guide application gamification projects) were used. The level of inclusiveness of participation, ownership-tenant ratios, and UN criteria were comparatively assessed. Results and Discussion: In the current system, 70% of decision-making processes are based on property owners; tenants' participation is limited to proxy. Socio-spatial segregation weakens neighborhood identity and leads to the dissolution of urban public spaces. Legal regulations (Condominium Law) and technological deficiencies hinder inclusiveness. Research Implications: Recommendation of digital engagement platforms, legal reforms that expand tenant rights, mixed-use housing policies, and data-driven planning at the neighborhood scale. These implications are applicable for municipalities, urban regeneration project managers, and policymakers. Originality/Value: The study brings an innovative perspective to the literature by addressing the participation-ownership balance with technology and community-centered approaches. Increasing data-based participation through applications such as Turkey's National City Guide offers a practical model for sustainable and equitable urban transformation.