Top-down Community Building and the Politics of Inclusion

More about the book

The study delves into community building dynamics within a neighborhood restaurant in Amsterdam, highlighting the paradox of well-intentioned efforts leading to exclusion. It reveals how attempts to foster inclusivity inadvertently resulted in a homogeneous community, where fears surrounding ethnic and racial differences created barriers for non-white and non-native residents. The research offers valuable insights for social scientists, social workers, and policymakers focused on social cohesion and community engagement in urban areas facing challenges.