The article aims to summarize urban expressions of contemporary conflicts. Adopting a critical perspective, it examines the concept of urban resilience applied to local contexts of three different cities. Human security in urban environments is evaluated in relation to civic conflicts, that is, socio-political disturbances and violent manifestations which have recently occurred in numerous cities all around the world. The way cities have become theatres of such conflicts is explained, identifying the material, social and political implications at play. Particular attention is paid to repressive and militarized response of the State and local authorities. The role of the civilian population in these conflicts is two-fold, as they represent both actors and victims. Government public security discourses are oftentimes in sharp contrast with security practices. The use of military means and technologies in urbanized areas is critically examined. At the same time, the role of communication technologies in civic conflicts is emphasized.
