EUKN - European Urban Knowledge Network

Dialogue in Zaanstad

Introduction

The dialogue in Zaanstad started in 2005. During various activities, this project brings immigrants, natives, young and old residents of Zaanstad together in discussion.

Problem

How do he residents of Zaanstad communicate with each other?

Description

After the social disquiet in response to the murder of Theo van Gogh, an initiative group was formed in Zaanstad. The composition of this initiative group reflects the composition of the residents of Zaanstad: Turks, Moroccans, Surinamers, Antilleans, Arubans, Cape Verdians and Dutch. The initiative group meets regularly. The group focuses on practical activities, that contribute to discussion among the different groups of residents in the Zaanstreek region. In this way, a contribution is made towards positive social development.

Approach

During the Day of Dialogue, 150 residents of Zaanstad were interviewed by young people and 3000 flyers were handed out to raise the awareness among citizens about the importance of dialogue. At the city’s dinner, approximately 80 people from all sections of the population (including members of the Municipal Executive, councillors and residents of Zaanstad) held discussions. Furthermore, the debates "Role model and media", "400 years of Morocco and the Netherlands" and "Youth debate and tolerance" were organised. All children from years 7 and 8 from all (almost 50) primary schools (years 1 and 2 in British secondary school) in Zaanstad took part in the essay competition project.

Results

Solidarity at district and urban levels has been reinforced.
Residents are themselves responsible for the atmosphere and good relations in the city and the districts.
There is more focus on the similarities between the citizens of Zaanstad.
Each of the ten projects within the framework of the Dialogue in Zaanstad has contributed towards the desired and already partially achieved results, in view of the large scope and diversity on offer.
The debate"Role model and media" was a success both in terms of attendance by the public and contributions by the press.
"400 years of Morocco and the Netherlands" far exceeded the anticipated numbers of interested parties. Three hundred people took part.
The project "Youth debate and tolerance" drew more than 100 young people.

Resources used

The city made 21,600 euros available and is providing facilities. The business community in Zaanstad and various organisations are also providing facilities.

Contact info

Municipality of Zaanstad
Mr T. Larooij, tel. +31 75 6553200

Contact info

Mr B. Fattah (resident of Zaanstad)

Project start date

29/01/2005

Links

Municipality of Zaanstad Dialogue in Zaanstad (in Dutch)

Document type

case

Themes

Urban Policy > Social inclusion & integration > Community development

Keywords

Citizens' participation