Work

The Transformative Potential of Active Citizenship: Understanding Changes in Local Governance Practices

Year: 2019

Type: article

Abstract: This paper focuses on understanding the transformative potential of active citizenship in green space governance. Through an in-depth case study, we show how citizens promoted the redevelopment of a brownfield into a green space, but eventually also contributed towards a broader co-creative shift in local governance. In this process, we highlight how a shift in citizens’ activities from contestation towards collaboration led to the uptake of citizen-driven discourses and activities in spatial planning. The social connectivity between governance practices is of key importance in this transformation—successful governance practices that involve active citizens can inspire others. Even so, transformation is often a slow and path-dependent process which also depends on an enabling policy environment. Cooperating with authorities provides citizens with power, but also requires alignment with official rules. Creating and maintaining effective partnerships will remain a challenge for citizens and policymakers that strive for societal transformations.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su11205781

Authors: Thomas J.M. Mattijssen, Arjen A.E. Buijs, Birgit H.M. Elands, Bas J.M. Arts, Rosalie I. van Dam, Josine L.M. Donders

Institutions: Wageningen University & Research, Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency

Language: English

Topic: Local Governance and Planning

Subfield: Geography, Planning and Development

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Sustainable cities and communities, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,722