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Influence citizen initiatives on social cohesion

Hannema, Patrick (2023) Influence citizen initiatives on social cohesion. Master thesis.

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Master thesis P.R. Hannema s3515141.pdf

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Abstract

In the dynamic urban landscape of today, cities are recognized as complex adaptive systems where stakeholders engage in open discourse to achieve consensus. To address the wicked challenges that arise in these cities, such as the lack of social cohesion, collaborative approaches are crucial, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder engagement beyond traditional power structures. Citizen initiatives are emerging as valuable tools for fostering collaboration among stakeholders and promoting participatory city planning. This research aims to identify and evaluate the factors of citizen initiatives that contribute to better social cohesion. The study took into account the multifaceted nature of social cohesion, dividing it into five dimensions: social capital, level of social engagement, place attachment, social inclusion, and common values and civic culture. Employing a case study approach, this research explored the perceived changes within these five dimensions resulting from two selected cases: Wijkbedrijf het Groenhuis and Stichting Welmobiel. The results show a positive difference in social capital, social inclusion, and social engagement after getting involved in a citizen initiative. However, for the other two dimensions, common values and civic culture and place and community attachment, most felt no significant change after joining the initiative. Despite often maintaining superficial relationships outside the initiatives, the progress made underscores the potential for fostering improved social cohesion.

Item Type: Thesis (Master)
Degree programme: Society, Sustainability and Planning (MSc Socio-spatial Planning)
Supervisor: Dijk, T. van
Date Deposited: 14 Jul 2023 11:46
Last Modified: 14 Jul 2023 11:46
URI: https://frw.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/4254

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