Spatial aspects of de-radicalisation processes

This report synthesises the city reports of the “Spatial aspects of de-radicalisation” work package from the D.Rad project. Within this work package, we studied mechanisms of inclusion and exclusion in public spaces to relate these dynamics to de-radicalisation processes and issues of social cohesion. We conceptualise public spaces as spaces that are characterised by unequal power relations, and as a realm in which people from different backgrounds have daily encounters. These spaces are not merely physical locations but arenas where societal norms, values, and power structures are negotiated. Public spaces are therefore an important sphere for primary prevention programmes that target society as a whole, which is why we conceptualise policies targeting social cohesion in public spaces as implicit de-radicalisation policies.

Following previous research, we argue that public spaces can either foster belonging and inclusion, or exacerbate marginalisation and alienation, meaning that they are potentially drivers of radicalisation but that they can also prevent the alienation of individuals. Within this work package, we focused on five very different European cities—Florence, Helsinki, Tbilisi, Prishtina, and Vienna—each facing unique challenges related to public spaces. The data collection followed three main steps: a literature review, interviews with experts in the field, and the organisation of two participatory focus group workshops in each of the five cities, focusing on one neighbourhood in-depth.

This synthesis report presents a comparative analysis of the empirical findings from the city reports and gives insights into each city context and the in-depth case study as well as examples of best practices and contested areas and contrasts the perceptions and approaches of stakeholders with the perceptions and proposed solutions of young users of local public spaces. Based on the empirical insights, this synthesis reports argues that planning procedures, governance systems, and research should strive to involve a wide range of stakeholders to recognise the varied needs and vulnerabilities of different user groups. Furthermore, the availability of resources and public infrastructure is crucial, as a lack of public spaces or the neglect of them often intensifies conflict and competition among users. The report concludes with a discussion of how inclusion, exclusion, and social cohesion within public spaces can influence broader de-radicalisation processes, outlining how public spaces hold significance as part of primary prevention efforts. The inclusivity or exclusivity within these spaces can impact feelings of belonging and social cohesion, which are integral to countering radicalisation and which contribute to creating environments where individuals feel accepted or at least tolerated.