Can a mega-event be developmental? : a case study of Cape Town as it prepares for the 2010 World Cup

Abstract

Cities and nations around the world vigorously compete to host mega-events such as the Olympics and the World Cup, despite the history of mixed economic and social impacts of these events. While such events have been traditionally sought by hosts as vehicles primarily for economic growth, image enhancement, and generation of civic and cultural pride, a recent trend is emerging in which substantial developmental components are integrated into hosting strategies. This study utilizes the human development paradigm, and its attendant emphasis on facilitating gains by the poor and disadvantaged, to evaluate the degree to which Cape Town can integrate developmental priorities into the role it plays as one of South Africa's host cities of the 2010 World Cup. The analysis focuses on the clash between the city's expansive human development objectives and the logistical and commercial dictates of hosting a mega-event. Also brought to the fore are the consequential public planning decisions required when hosting a mega-event in a developing city, with ramifications that can be particularly acute for the disadvantaged..