Participation and "Opportunity justice" in the social sphere/space. Social work between participation and paternalism: Who has a say, who is heard in neighbourhood and community development?

Abstract

Using the lens of radical, ethical social work, this article examines the challenges and potentials of social work in urban neighbourhood and community development in the context of direct democracy in Switzerland. We focus on participation in the Sozial Raum, towards socio-spatial justice. A critical analysis of neighbourhood and community development participation strategies reveals how divergent perceptions between political and urban planning actors on the one hand and residents on the other can lead to erroneous conclusions and, consequently, to inadequate or inappropriate interventions. We question the frequently propagated strategy of promoting social mixing and propose an alternative perspective that emphasises strengthening existing networks and living realities. In addition, we explore the role of social work as a mediator between the population and urban planners. We highlight its function not only as a moderating authority, but also as a radical, ethically grounded force that questions existing power relations and empowers marginalised groups.