Citation

Wentink C, Vaandrager L, van Dam R, Hassink J, Salverda I. Gac. Sanit. 2018; 32(6): 539-546.

Affiliation

Wageningen Environmental Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.gaceta.2017.05.011

PMID

28750842

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This research explores the role of social capital in urban citizens' initiatives in the Netherlands, by using in-depth interviews.

METHOD: Social capital was operationalized as shared norms and values, connectedness, trust and reciprocity.

RESULTS: The findings show that initiatives form around a shared idea or ambition (shared norms and values). An existing network of relationships (connectedness) is needed for an idea to emerge and take form. Connectedness can also increase as a result of an initiative. Some level of trust between people needs to be present from the start of the initiative. For the initiative to persist, strong in-group connections seem important, as well as a good balance between investments and returns. This reciprocity is mainly about intangible assets, such as energy and friendship.

CONCLUSION: This study concludes that social capital within citizens' initiatives is both a prerequisite for the formation of initiatives and a result of the existence of initiatives.

Copyright © 2017 SESPAS. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Language: en

Keywords

Gobernanza urbana; Iniciativas de ciudadanos de áreas urbanas; Intervención de capital social; Participatory society; Países Bajos; Social capital intervention; Sociedad participativa; The Netherlands; Urban citizens’ initiatives; Urban governance