How does one initiate and maintain dialogue among immigrants, natives, believers and non-believers?

The district monitor of 2002 found that social developments in the district of Utrecht-Zuid (Hoograven, Tolsteeg, Bokkenbuurt and Lunetten) were worrisome. 16% of the residents viewed the composition of the population of their own neighbourhood as a problem. In response to these findings, Utrecht’s MIX, together with other organisations in the district and city, took action. In the Hoograven district, a number of concrete activities were set up, such as a district-wide debate, an Internet Café and the 'Every Parent Counts’ project.

Residents in the district took the initiative to set up the Hoograven Dialogue group. In response to the attacks on 11 September 2001 and the murder of Theo van Gogh, the Hoograven Dialogue group, with the support of Utrecht’s MIX, organised discussion meetings with residents of the Tolsteeg and Hoograven districts.

During the initial meetings, eight meeting groups were formed. The participants got to know each other by means of discussions, shared meals and walks. The meetings have initiated dialogue between immigrants, natives, believers and non-believers.

The project is funded by the City of Utrecht.

A. de Regt, tel. +31 30 2308808

01/09/2001

case

Urban Policy > Social inclusion & integration > Community development

Citizens' participation