Twentieth International Conference on Environmental, Cultural, Economic & Social Sustainability

Abstract

After a conflict-ridden decade, political and social tensions seem pose a challenge to social cohesion and participatory democracy in Europe. In order to prevent further political polarization and an intensification of socio-economic segregation within and between regions, disadvantaged areas are particularly challenged to increase the quality of life and well-being of their citizens in lieu of municipal debt and budget restraints. This affects particularly the provision of social infrastructures and (in)formal spaces of encounter. This research focuses on citizen initiatives and their importance for social cohesion in disadvantaged mid-sized cities in Germany using insights from case studies. Findings from interviews and surveys collected in 2022 and 2023 reveal that demographic change is not only an obstacle to the economic welfare of cities, but also impedes the formation of a strong local community. Despite a general awareness of the interdependence of citizen initiatives and local governments, limited human and economic resources impede collaboration and cooperation.