%A Maarten Taconis
%X This study investigates the effects of a shifting socio-political paradigm on the support and sentiment towards the Lelylijn, a major infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity and economic development in the northern regions of the Netherlands. Against the backdrop of the rise of authoritarian populism and governmental criticism, exemplified by the electoral success of the BBB in 2023, this research aims to shed light on how these socio-political influences shape considerations and evaluations of the Lelylijn from various political perspectives. By employing a mixed-methods analysis, underlying factors driving these considerations and evaluations are examined. 
Existing literature suggests that regions exhibiting lower economic indicators and/or population outflows tend to demonstrate higher levels of populism. The findings of this study highlight the reflection of political stance on the evaluation of the Lelylijn. Importantly, the non-significance of extreme values refutes the narrative of extremist segregation. Moreover, this research demonstrates a correspondence between the values that influence political stance and the values pertaining the project at hand. This connection highlights the possible causal impacts of the project on the emergence of patterns characterized by “moral unease”. Consequently, the study emphasized the necessity of improved communication, the value of knowledge, and the promotion of public participation. 
In conclusion, the findings indicate that political stance reflects a skeptical perspective towards the Lelylijn. The social and academic significance of this research lies in its contribution to the advancement of understanding political influences and the optimization of future infrastructure initiatives. Furthermore, the study provides insights for addressing divergent perspectives and interests in similar contexts, thereby contributing to the development of conflict resolution strategies at the local level.
%T Skepticism Opulence: The Lelylijn
%L theses_frw4777
%D 2023