Speakers
Description
Public spaces are increasingly recognized as pivotal sites for fostering social interaction, cultural expression, and political engagement. However, face of social and climate challenges, their potential as environments for future shaping and hope fostering is intrinsically related to the effective engagement of diverse communities, aiming to overcome structural social inequalities. This paper investigates the transformative role of participatory processes in European-funded projects, with a particular focus on the initial developments of a public park in Porto (Portugal) through nature-based solutions. Drawing on a combination of literature review, theoretical analysis, and practical experience as urban professionals and researchers, this study explores the challenges of bridging and translating the demands of diverse stakeholders in a socially vulnerable neighbourhood with low trust in municipal proposals, as well as privileged groups with weak local ties. The paper examines how differing perceptions of time and rhythm between municipal actors and local communities hinder effective cooperation, focusing on the engagement phase of the park project funded by European resources. Key findings reveal both failed methodologies—such as over-reliance on bureaucratic timelines—and successful strategies for fostering trust, encouraging multi-level communication, and enhancing transparency among social and institutional actors. These strategies focused on the genuine participation of marginalized groups, aiming to create a shared vision that supports climate and social justice. By emphasising the importance of care, adaptability, and time-conscious communication and cooperation, this paper contributes to the understanding of how public spaces, when aimed at social equality and sustainability, have the potential to be sites of social-environmental progress. It offers insights and recommendations on how urban professionals and local administrations can better navigate complex social dynamics and bureaucratic constraints, fostering public spaces that contribute to possible and fairer urban futures.
References
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| Keywords | public space, participatory processes, trust-building, social justice, local communities |
|---|---|
| Best Congress Paper Award | No |
