Partnership Framework Research Articles

A new partnership framework for education with geoparks at its core: a proposal through the evaluation of the school education program in Shikaoi, Japan

The primary objectives of geoparks are to conserve geoheritage, enhance public awareness and understanding of geoscience, and drive sustainable economic growth in local communities. Education acts as the cornerstone in achieving these three objectives, as it provides the necessary foundation for their realization. This study proposes a new educational framework to promote the sustainable development of geoparks by evaluating the effecacy of the past geoeducation program. Specifically, this study focused on the Tokachi-Shikaoi Geopark and Hokkaido Shikaoi High School. A mixed methodology was employed, including content analysis of the textbooks, online questionnaire surveys of high school students, and field interviews with key informants. The results revealed that while geoeducation with well-prepared textbooks was encouraged in schools in Shikaoi Town until 2018, there is a need to revitalize geopark education in an alternative way for the future. We proposed a new partnership framework for the educational program among the geopark, universities, elementary, junior high, and high schools, and other stakeholders to maximize the geopark resources in the proposed program through the effective use of existing textbook assets. The results of the questionnaire surveys found that not only indoor learning with textbooks, but also outdoor learning at geosites is important. The results of the interview survey suggested the need to offer training and support for schoolteachers. To address budget constraints, this study proposed the inclusion of support from universities and the introduction of e-textbooks featuring geopark-related knowledge. This study highlights the crucial role of education in promoting sustainable development in Tokachi-Shikaoi Geopark. The insights gained have broader implications for education in other geoparks, offering valuable guidance for enhancing the quality and effectiveness of education in geoparks.

A dynamic capabilities framework for agriculture education partnerships

ABSTRACT Purpose Our study aimed to identify the characteristics required to develop effective teacher-industry partnerships in Australia. These partnerships are increasingly important in agricultural for teachers to better understand the technological careers available for their students in agriculture. To determine the dynamic capabilities required for effective partnership in agriculture, we examined how teachers and industry representatives worked in partnerships to increase knowledge and understanding of agriculture technology in schools. Design/Methodology/Approach A qualitative case study methodology was used which focussed on industry representatives’ and teachers’ experiences in the context of a teacher professional development programme. Semi-structured interviews were used to explore five purposively selected teacher-industry partnerships that were formed during the programme. Findings This study has identified specific characteristics and behaviours required for effective teacher-industry partnerships in Australia and provide a practical guide for those seeking to work together to improve the visibility of agriculture careers and support a talent pipeline into the sector. Practical Implications Our research has found that for Australian teachers to be role models for future agriculture professionals and provide up-to-date information about the career opportunities available in agriculture, they require knowledge of authentic industry practices that can be developed through partnerships with industry. Theoretical Implications This study applies the Dynamic Capabilities (Dentoni et al. 2016) framework to an agriculture education context and extends it by identifying critical characteristics for agricultural education partnerships. Originality/Value Establishing stronger ties between agriculture teachers and industry is more important than ever given the critical talent pipeline issues facing the Australian agriculture sector. This paper contributes by providing a framework of dynamic capabilities required for effective teacher-industry partnerships in agriculture education.

This study explores strategic management and governance frameworks for Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in agribusiness, focusing on Purvanchal, Uttar Pradesh, a region predominantly reliant on agriculture but challenged by limited infrastructure and re

This study explores strategic management and governance frameworks for Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in agribusiness, focusing on Purvanchal, Uttar Pradesh, a region predominantly reliant on agriculture but challenged by limited infrastructure and re

PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP IN UKRAINE: DEVELOPMENT PROSPECTS AND IMPACT ON INFRASTRUCTURE REHABILITATION

In Ukraine, the war has increased the need for urgent infrastructure restoration. Destroyed facilities need to be modernized for the stability of the economy. Public-private partnerships effectively attract investments by mobilizing resources and distributing risks, which increases management efficiency. However, the implementation of public-private partnerships faces challenges, such as an imperfect regulatory framework and corruption, which need to be addressed for further development. The purpose of the study is to explore the possibilities of developing public-private partnerships in Ukraine, taking into account the socio-economic context and the needs of the population. The object of the study is the mechanisms of interaction between the public and private sectors and their impact on the restoration of Ukraine’s infrastructure. The study is based on scientific works, statistical data and regulations. Methods used: morphological, empirical, statistical, analysis and synthesis, structural and logical analysis. Theoretical approaches to the interpretation of the concepts of “public-private partnership” and “public-private partnership” are generalized, and common and distinctive features are outlined. The peculiarities of the legislative and regulatory framework of public-private partnership in Ukraine are determined. The key advantages and disadvantages of the legislative and regulatory framework for public-private partnerships in Ukraine are outlined. The main indicators of economic development of public-private partnerships in Ukraine for 1990-2023 are presented. The main stages of public-private partnership formation in the time period of 2015-2024 are identified and characterized. The study recommends the main factors of impact of public-private partnerships for the restoration of Ukraine’s infrastructure, including attracting private investment, effective project management, risk sharing, innovation, job creation, improving the quality of services, and attracting international partners.

Establishment of the First Institution-Based Poison Information Center in Nepal Through a Multilateral International Partnership.

Toxicological emergencies present a significant health challenge in Nepal. Despite the high burden, the country has inadequate formal toxicology training, medical toxicology expertise, and adequate poison control infrastructure. In recognition of this need, the Nepal Poison Information Center (PIC) was established as a collaborative effort involving local and international partners. Through a comprehensive partnership framework, the Nepal PIC provides 24 hours a day, 7 days a week expert guidance to health care workers, conducts educational webinars, and engages in research. Initial data from the pilot phase indicate successful consultation delivery. Challenges include bureaucratic hurdles and the need for sustainable funding. Despite these challenges, the Nepal PIC demonstrates early feasibility and potential for expansion into a comprehensive toxicology center, contributing to the advancement of clinical toxicology in Nepal. Long-term sustainability relies on governmental support and continued advocacy efforts.

Local community's engagement and enactment of social value from hydropower infrastructure

PurposeSocial needs of local community are highly essential in the context of public infrastructure and have an impact on their performance. This paper explores the local community subjectivity in interaction with primary stakeholders to deepen our understanding of social value and this category of misunderstood stakeholders.Design/methodology/approachThe paper presents a partnership framework that aims to help stakeholders be reflexive and construct knowledge about social value of the infrastructure. The empirical material includes an extensive review of the public infrastructure documents published between 1981 and 2021 and 13 interviews with key members of local community.FindingsThe main contribution of this study is an integrated model to study the social value of an infrastructure and a dynamic approach to study how a local community engages and enacts social value. The dynamic approach highlights three plans of stakeholder’s subjectivity, which are relational, representational and operational plans to promote inclusive stakeholder’s management (“of” and “for”).Originality/valueThe study combines an analytical and a theoretical framework to investigate the enactment of social value.

Leveraging the BRICS Digital Partnership for Collaborative Digital Governance

As the global economy becomes increasingly underpinned by the digital economy, developing countries must grapple with the challenge of digitally transforming their economies while ensuring that no one is left behind. The BRICS countries - Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa - are at different stages of digital development and have adopted varying approaches to digital governance. However, the challenges of the 21st century require a joint approach to e-commerce, internet governance, and the challenges of a digitalising global economy. The BRICS Digital Economy Partnership Framework, launched in 2022, is a positive step towards a comprehensive digital governance framework. This framework promotes cooperation on various digital issues, including cybersecurity, data protection, and e-commerce. This policy brief examines how the framework can be leveraged to benefit the BRICS countries.

Collaborations for Social Value: Governance Framework for Community-Social Enterprise Partnerships

Collaborations for Social Value: Governance Framework for Community-Social Enterprise Partnerships

Public-Private partnership frameworks for financing affordable housing: Lessons and models

The pressing need for affordable housing in both developed and developing countries has prompted governments to explore innovative financing mechanisms, with Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) emerging as a viable solution. This paper examines the frameworks, lessons, and models of PPPs for financing affordable housing, aiming to provide insights into their effectiveness and scalability. PPPs combine the resources, expertise, and efficiencies of both the public and private sectors to address the housing affordability crisis. By leveraging the strengths of each sector, PPPs aim to reduce financial burdens on governments while ensuring the delivery of quality housing solutions. This review outlines the various PPP models, including build-operate-transfer (BOT), design-build-finance-operate (DBFO), and lease-develop-operate (LDO), highlighting their structural differences and application contexts. Key components of successful PPP frameworks include clear regulatory environments, transparent procurement processes, risk-sharing mechanisms, and robust stakeholder engagement. Regulatory frameworks that support PPPs play a critical role in providing legal certainty and fostering investor confidence. Transparent procurement processes ensure fairness and competitiveness, while effective risk-sharing mechanisms distribute financial, construction, and operational risks appropriately between public and private partners. Engaging stakeholders, including communities and civil society, is essential for aligning project objectives with local needs and ensuring social acceptance. Case studies from various regions illustrate the practical application and outcomes of PPP frameworks. In the United Kingdom, the Affordable Homes Programme (AHP) has effectively utilized PPPs to deliver thousands of affordable housing units, demonstrating the benefits of strong regulatory support and private sector participation. Singapore's Housing and Development Board (HDB) employs PPP models to maintain high housing standards while ensuring affordability through extensive government subsidies and private sector involvement. In South Africa, the Social Housing Regulatory Authority (SHRA) leverages PPPs to develop rental housing for low- and moderate-income households, highlighting the importance of government incentives and capacity-building initiatives. The review concludes that PPP frameworks, when effectively designed and implemented, can significantly enhance the availability of affordable housing. Lessons learned from successful models emphasize the need for supportive policies, transparent processes, and inclusive stakeholder engagement. Policymakers and practitioners can draw on these insights to develop tailored PPP approaches that address specific housing challenges and contribute to sustainable urban development. Keywords: Public-Private Partnership: Frameworks, Financing, Affordable Housing, Models.

Collaboration Practices for the Cybersecurity of Supply Chains to Critical Infrastructure

This work describes the collaboration practices of a community of interest in the UK that brings together cybersecurity professionals with a shared interest in improving supply chain cybersecurity for Operational Technology (OT) environments. This research emphasizes the need for collective responsibility between organizations and provides a set of principles for adopting a code of practice and partnership approach to supply chain cybersecurity. This work has enabled cybersecurity experience from several critical infrastructure sectors, including energy, rail, aviation, water, health, and food, to analyze the uptake and practical use of existing supply chain guidance, identifying gaps and challenges. The community has examined touch points with the supply chain and identified improvements related to the communication of cybersecurity requirements, technical and commercial engagement between customers and suppliers, and in the tailoring of implementations towards operational technology contexts. Communicating the context of securing cyber-physical systems is an essential perspective for this community. This work exemplifies a partnership framework and is translating experiences into useful guidance, particularly for OT systems, to improve cybersecurity levels across multiple contributors to critical infrastructure systems.

Applying the Effective Programme Coverage framework to assess gaps in HIV prevention programmes for female sex workers and men who have sex with men in Nairobi, Kenya: findings from an expanded Polling Booth Survey.

Measuring the coverage of HIV prevention services for key populations (KPs) has consistently been a challenge for national HIV programmes. The current frameworks and measurement methods lack emphasis on effective coverage, occur infrequently, lack timeliness and limit the participation of KPs. The Effective Programme Coverage framework, which utilizes a programme science approach, provides an opportunity to assess gaps in various coverage domains and explore the underlying reasons for these gaps, in order to develop targeted solutions. We have demonstrated the application of this framework in partnership with the KP community in Nairobi, Kenya, using an expanded Polling Booth Survey (ePBS) method. Data were collected between April and May 2023 among female sex workers (FSWs) and men who have sex with men (MSM) using (a) PBS, (b) bio-behavioural survey and (c) focus group discussions. Data collection and analysis involved both KP community and non-community researchers. Descriptive analysis was performed, and proportions were used to assess the programme coverage gaps. The data were weighted to account for the sampling design and unequal selection probabilities. Thematic analysis was conducted on the qualitative data. The condom programme for FSW and MSM had low availability (60.2% and 50.9%), contact (68.8% and 65.9%) and utilization (52.1% and 43.9%) coverages. The pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) programme had very low utilization coverage for FSW and MSM (4.4% and 2.8%), while antiretroviral therapy utilization coverage was higher (86.6% and 87.7%). Reasons for coverage gaps included a low peer educator-to-peer ratio, longer distance to the clinics, shortage of free condoms supplied by the government, experienced and anticipated side effects related to PrEP, and stigma and discrimination experienced in the facilities. The Effective Programme Coverage framework allows programmes to assess coverage gaps and develop solutions and a research agenda targeted at specific domains of coverage with large gaps. The ePBS method works well in collecting data to understand coverage gaps rapidly and allows for the engagement of the KP community.

The cultural potential of the modern Russian region: infrastructure and consumption of services by the population (on the example of the Vologda region

The object of analysis in the article is the Russian region cultural potential in the context of infrastructure development and consumption of cultural and leisure services by the population. The purpose of the study is to identify quantitative and qualitative characteristics of various components of the cultural sphere of the region. The empirical basis is statistical data, reports from authorities, government programs and projects, as well as monitoring public opinion materials of Vologda region population in 2022 (n=1500). The methodology is based on a resource approach to studying the cultural potential of the region. Statistical data analysis shows negative trends in terms of a reduction in the number of cultural and leisure institutions in the region, a decrease in the consumption of certain types of services for 2000–2022, and the lag of municipal districts and rural areas in the development of cultural and leisure infrastructure compared to large cities. Positive changes are associated with the implementation of a comprehensive state cultural policy both on the part of the federal center and on the part of regional authorities: increasing in overall budget expenditures on culture was revealed with an insufficient share of extra-budgetary sources of funding. As an effective resource for leveling out problems with the involvement of extra-budgetary sources, examples of the participation of private investors within the framework of public-private and public-municipal partnerships are given. The results of the sociological survey recorded positive changes in the population’s assessment of the general situation in the cultural and leisure sphere of the region, identified the range of popular cultural, leisure and sports services, and a high level of satisfaction with their quality, which exceeds the Russian average. It has been established that the older generation; categories of residents with a low level of education and low-income residents are less active in consuming cultural and leisure services. As age increases, attendance at all of the institutions offered for choice decreases. The set of analysis results substantiates the need to use a more differentiated approach to the development of national and regional cultural policies, focusing on socio-demographic categories of the population, taking into account their needs.

The emergency medical teams initiative in the WHO African region: a review of the development and progress over the past 7 years.

The WHO Emergency Medical Teams (EMT) Initiative coordinates the deployment of qualified medical teams who promptly respond to public health emergencies (PHEs) and provide quality service during emergencies whilst strengthening capacity. Globally, 40 EMTs have been classified between 2016 and the present (as of the writing of this article in December 2023) and are from across all the WHO regions except the WHO Africa Region (AFRO). However, WHO Africa has prioritised the implementation of EMTs in 10 priority countries to address the public health emergencies (PHEs) affecting the region. This article describes the development and progress of national EMTs in the WHO African Region over the past 7 years and elucidates the main lessons learned and the complexity and challenges in the process. This study employed a case study approach because of its appropriateness in examining a complex social phenomenon in a socio-political context in depth, using multiple lenses simultaneously. Data and information were obtained through document reviews and key informant interviews (KIIs) (n = 5) with the members of the EMT Initiative on shared field experiences. Data were systematically analysed using the Stages of Implementation Completion (SIC) framework, and the lessons learnt were presented using components of a framework from Adini et al. The Initiative commenced in the WHO African Region following its launch in December 2017 in Senegal. The assessments of the concept's engagement (involved learning and deciding), feasibility (reviewing expectation and capacity), and readiness planning (collaborating and preparing) showed that the context-specific (African context) challenges, lessons from different emergency response actions mainly guided the Initiative's pre-implementation phase in the region and prompted the WHO emergency leadership on the urgency and need for the EMT concept in the region. The assessment of the implementation processes showed progress in key areas, with staff demonstrating improved competency, EMT services maintaining high fidelity, effective consultation launching critical components, and ongoing services providing successful support and monitoring. Creating the N-EMTs and revitalising the EMT concept required an aligned strategy with other regional emergency programmes and a futuristic vision. Proposed sustainability and governance components include creating N-EMT, developing a coordination structure, collaborating with partners, and finalising the N-EMT. The Initiative is an imperative component that would allow better-targeted management of health emergencies in the region. The continuous refinement of the EMT initiative is crucial. There is a need to work on additional components, such as a context-specific framework for collaborations and partnerships that would enhance deployment and procurement modalities and the complementarity between other regional initiatives to improve the work. Emphasis should be placed on strengthening local health systems, enhancing training and capacity-building programmes, and fostering regional and international collaborations. Additionally, sustainable funding and resource allocation are essential to ensure the resilience of EMTs in the African region and their long-term success.

EVOLVING STRATEGIES: INDIA'S ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY IN THE GLOBAL ERA

This study explores the evolution and strategies of India's economic diplomacy from 1991 to the present, focusing on Japan's role within the Special Strategic and Global Partnership framework. It highlights the transformation of India's economic policies due to globalization and emphasizes the significance of the partnership with Japan through key initiatives like the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor and the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail project. The research identifies strategic measures taken by India to enhance economic competitiveness and address sustainability challenges. Despite progress, issues such as reliance on foreign technology and the need for sustainable development remain. Using a qualitative approach and secondary data from official documents, government reports, academic journals, and media publications, the study provides a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics and complexities of India's economic diplomacy. Focusing on domestic industry development, energy efficiency, and innovation, India aims to achieve long-term economic sustainability. The findings contribute to the literature on economic diplomacy and offer insights for policymakers to enhance international economic relationships.

Enhancing Performance of Public-Private Partnership Projects: Data Management and Capacity Building of Standard Gauge Railway

This study assessed the impact of data management and capacity building on the performance of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project in Kenya, specifically within the context of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) practices in public-private partnership (PPP) frameworks. Anchored in the tenets of the Principal-Agent Theory, Institutional Theory, and Transaction Cost Economics Theory, this research employs a survey-based approach, drawing insights from 55 SGR project employees. In exploring the influence of data management, the findings illuminate its significant correlation with the orchestration and advancement of the SGR project. Additionally, the study underscores the positive repercussions of capacity-building initiatives on enhancing the project’s performance metrics. Notably, participants exhibited a consensus regarding the efficacy of these programs in augmenting the skills and knowledge base of the project team and stakeholders. The study accentuates the imperative for a comprehensive review aimed at fortifying the accuracy and security of project data. It recommends a strategic emphasis on initiatives enhancing data reliability and security within the SGR project’s framework. These insights contribute crucial perspectives on the pivotal roles of data management and capacity building, specifically underscoring their influence on the SGR project in Kenya.

Land and Forgiveness: How One Woman’s Dream to Free the Land is Breaking New Ground

This article explores the cultural, economic, and ecological challenges of the Die Bevryde Grond Trust and communities of the larger Valley of Grace in the Breede River Basin of South Africa. It examines how ‘Deep Forgiveness’ inspires acts of practical love through reconciliation, restoration, and regeneration. This is the story of Aletta Venter, a South African farmer and descendent of European colonials, who created the Die Bevryde Grond Trust, or Freed Land Trust, to prioritize land stewardship over land ownership. It chronicles Venter’s pursuit of emerging technologies (Decentralized Autonomous Organizations, blockchain, tokenization, and community currencies) as the new plows and seeders to actualize her bold dream to free the land. Venter’s story touches on all four cornerstones of Riane Eisler’s Partnership Framework: Gender, Family/Childhood, Economics, and Language/Narrative. Eisler urges that clarity of vision is required for new ideas to be translated into new realities. Venter embodies this vision by partnering with Indigenous farmers, technologists, and social scientists, to forge a new narrative of our enduring relationship with The Land.

OpenVPN is Open to VPN Fingerprinting

VPN adoption has seen steady growth over the past decade due to increased public awareness of privacy and surveillance threats. In response, certain governments are attempting to restrict VPN access by identifying connections using “dual use” DPI technology. To investigate the potential for VPN blocking, we develop mechanisms for accurately fingerprinting connections using OpenVPN, the most popular protocol for commercial VPN services. We identify three fingerprints based on protocol features such as byte pattern, packet size, and server response. Playing the role of an attacker who controls the network, we design a two-phase framework that performs passive fingerprinting and active probing in sequence. We evaluate our framework in partnership with a million-user ISP and find that we identify over 85% of OpenVPN flows with only negligible false positives, suggesting that OpenVPN-based services can be effectively blocked with little collateral damage. Although some commercial VPNs implement countermeasures to avoid detection, our framework successfully identified connections to 34 out of 41 “obfuscated” VPN configurations. We discuss the implications of the VPN fingerprintability for different threat models and propose short-term defenses. In the longer term, we urge commercial VPN providers to be more transparent about their obfuscation approaches and to adopt more principled detection countermeasures, such as those developed in censorship circumvention research.

Georgia-EU Cooperation in the Field of Culture in Multilateral and Bilateral International Format

In the realm of international relations, the significance of culture and soft power is steadily growing, particularly in the establishment of diplomatic ties and the fostering of cooperation among nations. As Georgia progresses in its integration into the European Union—a political and economic endeavor given the union's nature—its motto of "unity in diversity" exemplifies the European commitment to peace, citizen well-being, and the celebration of cultural diversity. The European Union stands as a prominent example of effective soft power utilization in international relations, with culture representing one of its most intricate integration domains. In the context of Georgia's deepening ties with the EU, a thorough examination of European and developed countries' cultural pathways and experiences becomes imperative. This analysis is essential for Georgia to chart a coherent, unified, and effective cultural policy, both domestically and on the global stage. Following the European Commission's recommendation on November 8, 2023, Georgia was granted the EU candidate status by the European Council on December 14, officially becoming part of the EU's enlargement policy. Consequently, it becomes even more pertinent for Georgia to scrutinize and understand the EU's cultural policy, a cornerstone of its foreign relations strategy. The influence of cultural policy on the EU-Eastern Partnership relations emerges as the significant force shaping their development. Cultural cooperation serves as a linchpin, fostering mutual understanding, identity preservation, and the cultivation of shared values. The analysis of progress and challenges within Georgia-EU cooperation, both bilaterally and multilaterally, offers insight into how cultural relations are cultivated within the Eastern Partnership framework. The EU cultural policy, operationalized through various mechanisms like association agreements and support packages, prioritizes democracy, human rights, and cultural cooperation, adapting to the unique circumstances of each partner country. Examining the EU's cultural policy within the Eastern Partnership context underscores culture's pivotal role in diplomacy, cooperation, and economic development. Establishing an effective vision centered on cultural cooperation is crucial for Georgia's engagement with the EU, positioning it as a cornerstone of the partnership's success. Keywords: EU cultural policy, soft power, European integration, European perspective.

Analysis of Ministry of Health Regulation No. 30 of 2022 on Hospital Service Quality In Indonesia

Indonesian Ministry of Health Regulation No. 30 of 2022 has become a focal point in efforts to improve the quality of services in hospitals. In this context, this study aims to investigate the extent of the effectiveness of this regulation and the key factors influencing its implementation in the hospital accreditation process. This study examines the effectiveness of this regulation and the key factors affecting the hospital accreditation process. The research used a mixed approach with qualitative and quantitative techniques and analyzed empirical and theoretical data from scientific publications over the last five years. The findings indicate that this regulation has significantly improved operational efficiency and patient satisfaction in healthcare facilities. Several studies highlight improvements in patient identification protocols, risk management, and compliance with healthcare service standards. However, there are challenges, such as gaps in technology infrastructure and training for implementing electronic medical records (EMR), uneven distribution of specialist doctors, and deficiencies in the framework for public-private partnerships.

Upwind Despite Headwind? Degrowth Transformations Amidst Shrinkage and Eroding Democracy in an East German Small Town

Spatial transformation follows the logic of a growth-oriented economy that values cities according to their place in the chain of capitalist wealth production. Many cities in East Germany have lost their significance as sites of production and are consequently facing population decline and the weakening of social bonds in the community. For this reason, citizens of the East German small town of Zella-Mehlis (state of Thuringia) have begun to reflect on alternative models for urban development. In this article, the process of arriving at a degrowth strategy, as provided by the academic discourse, will be documented. It will be demonstrated that the process of shrinkage has not only left little space for a degrowth planning approach put into practice. Moreover, the article reveals that the costs of the growth economy on society are not limited to population shrinkage, but also have a severe impact on the sociability of the local community. The rise of right-wing populists and climate change-denying actors mirrors the decreasing social ability for collective learning processes needed for a shift to a solidary degrowth strategy. However, the case study shows how ambivalent these developments are: Long-term participatory processes within the public–civic partnership framework of the Aufwind (German for upwind) initiative in Zella-Mehlis can challenge path dependencies and open new degrowth-inspired perspectives. The article is informed by many years of intensive field research in a qualitative mixed-method design and focuses on the close links between shrinkage processes, the local degrowth agenda, and the consequences of an eroding democracy.