Defis poses par le phenomene d'autoconstruction

The phenomenon of autoconstruction is found in the shanty-towns of Lima, just as in other Latin-American agglomerations. But the term "autoconstruction' itself, suggesting technical and individual action, does not express properly a very complex social phenomenon. Concrete empirical research shows that autoconstruction comes into being through a complex network of kins, friends and neighbours; it involves reciprocity in doing non-specialized labours, an indemnization in the form of food or cash, as well as the payment of a salary to an overseer put in charge of coordinating the work. Symbolical practices, such as the feast organised at the time when the roof is finished, must be seen as traditional and rural forms of cultural expression. In order to plan and implement any programme aiming at an amelioration of popular housing, it is indispensable to have a good knowledge of these processes, networks and practices. -from English summary