Territorialisation refers to the process of defining and establishing a territory or a geographical area according to specific political, social, or economic criteria. It is the act of codifying borders and delineating boundaries to designate ownership, control, or jurisdiction over a particular space.
In the realm of political geography, territorialisation involves the creation and recognition of sovereign states, provinces, or administrative regions. This process often involves political negotiations, agreements, and treaties between different actors, such as countries or ethnic groups. The purpose of territorialisation can be to exercise control over resources, establish governance structures, or assert authority over a particular population.
Socially, territorialisation can manifest in the formation of communities or the demarcation of specific zones within a city or town, with the aim of defining certain areas for cultural practices, economic activities, or social interactions. It can result in the establishment of distinct neighborhoods, districts, or enclaves that reflect specific identities or lifestyles.
Economically, territorialisation can occur through land zoning, the designation of specific areas for industrial, residential, commercial, or agricultural purposes. It involves imposing regulations, rules, and restrictions to manage and control resource allocation, land use, or economic development within a given territory.
Territorialisation processes are dynamic and subject to constant renegotiation and contestation, as they often involve competing interests, power struggles, or conflicting claims over land, resources, or authority.
