What process describes the deterioration of urban areas due to socioeconomic changes?

The process of ghettoisation refers to the deterioration of urban areas that often occurs as a result of socioeconomic changes, where specific neighborhoods become inhabited predominantly by marginalized or lower-income groups. This phenomenon typically arises when wealthier residents move out of these areas, leading to a concentration of poverty, reduced investment in infrastructure and services, and an increase in crime and social issues.

Ghettoisation is closely linked with factors such as systemic inequality, housing policies, and economic disinvestment, which create environments where certain populations are isolated and experience diminished opportunities for upward mobility. As urban areas decline, they may see an increase in social stratification and a lack of access to essential resources, exacerbating the challenges faced by the remaining residents.

In contrast, urbanisation involves the growth and development of cities, typically involving an influx of people and economic activity. Brain drain refers to the emigration of highly skilled individuals seeking better opportunities elsewhere, while labour migration pertains to the movement of workers from one region or country to another in search of employment. While these processes can influence urban dynamics, they do not specifically describe the decline in urban areas due to socioeconomic factors, making ghettoisation the accurate choice in this context.