Speaker
Description
This paper examines the role of civil society organisations (CSOs) within the shifting landscape of England’s urban governance amid political and economic upheavals. Focusing on the interplay between 'urban crises' and 'local practices', the study investigates how CSOs navigate challenges posed by neoliberal policies, austerity measures, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on qualitative data from 65 CSOs, it explores how these organisations bridge gaps between centralised priorities and grassroots needs through locally-driven initiatives, social learning processes, and solidarity-making efforts. Contrary to perceptions of CSOs as passive recipients of government funding, the findings reveal their role as proactive intermediaries bridging policy frameworks and community realities. CSOs tackle systemic pressures such as social isolation, economic inequality, and declining civic engagement, particularly among marginalised groups like youth and low-income populations. By leveraging local knowledge, they advocate for inclusive and community-centred responses, challenge structural inequalities, and adapt to the constraints of austerity urbanism. This research emphasises the importance of recognising CSOs’ critical role in reshaping governance models and planning practices to reflect local contexts. It contributes to urban governance discourse by highlighting the adaptability and agency of CSOs in addressing socio-political challenges and advancing democratic planning.
| Best Congress Paper Award | Yes |
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