THE ROLE OF A PARTICIPATORY SPACE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF CITIZENSHIP

Abstract

Research and policymaking are paying increasing attention to the development of citizenship, stimulated by the transition towards a participatory society. In this paper we focus specifically on citizens in mental health and homeless care, whose citizenship is often underdeveloped. Pols (2016) endorses the need for a participatory space outside home or work where people in a vulnerable position can develop relational citizenship. We reflect on the influence a participatory space can have on the development of individual and democratic citizenship besides the more commonly described relational citizenship. We specifically focus on characteristics of a participatory space that can influence the development of citizenship. To this end we use both theoretical insights and empirical data from a longitudinal participatory study into Je Eigen Stek (JES, Your own place), a self-managed transitional programme in homeless care. JES as a participatory space contributes to the development of individual, relational and democratic citizenship, even though not all participants benefit equally. The different forms of citizenship both hinder and stimulate each other. Our paper brings to light aspects of a participatory space that can influence the development of individual, relational and democratic citizenship. We also found indications for the importance of looking at physical aspects of a participatory space in relation to the development of citizenship. Citizens in homeless care are able to develop citizenship, supported by a participatory space if adequately facilitated. It is therefore important to assess the quality of the participatory space.