Photographer Annika Haas documents the residents of Soodevahe, a mini-town located outside of Tallinn, Estonia, that will soon be demolished to service a nearby airport.
The town and community has gradually collapsed into a state of near-dilapidation, partly attributed to the fact that the young people are no longer enamored by the idea of living an isolated, pastoral existence, and have all but abandoned Soodevahe. Most of the town's current residents are too old to leave, and are quite content to stay until the bitter end.
Haas' photography documents the close-knit kinship between the remaining residents. The impending eviction of the residents, many of whom have lived there for decades, tinges the series with sadness.
Shanty Town Photography
Annika Haas Documents the Life of an Estonian Town
Trend Themes
1. Rural Displacement - The displacement of rural communities for urban development presents an opportunity for innovation in urban planning and sustainable development.
2. Youth Migration - The exodus of rural youth presents an opportunity to develop and implement initiatives that retain young people in rural communities through improved infrastructure and access to employment opportunities.
3. Community Kinship - The close-knit kinship of rural communities presents an opportunity for strengthening social ties and developing initiatives that address the needs of aging populations in these areas.
Industry Implications
1. Real Estate Development - Real estate developers can explore alternative models for urban development that address the needs of displaced rural communities and facilitate sustainable urbanization.
2. Government and Policy - National and local governments can collaborate with grassroots organizations to identify and address the needs of rural communities through policies that promote rural development and investment in infrastructure.
3. Social Services - Social service providers can work with rural communities to develop programs that address the unique needs of aging populations and provide resources for communities facing displacement and relocation.