Zur Situation und Verbesserung von Partizipation junger Menschen in der Stadtplanung

The participation of adolescents in planning processes is becoming increasingly important. However, the involvement of young people not only offers advantages; participatory initiatives also encounter challenges. In addition to a small number of contributors, this also relates to the quality and quantity of contributions. Nevertheless, the participation of young people per se is considered difficult and often falls behind expectations. What advantages and challenges characterize participatory projects involving adolescents? How can participation with young people be designed (more) effectively? An online survey of urban planning experts in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, which was conducted as part of the u³Green project, addresses these questions. The responses of the more than 80 participants show that young people are definitely involved in urban planning issues. This primarily relates to projects for the design of playgrounds and sports areas as well as diverse open spaces. The interviewees see the main advantages of involving young people as being in receipt of new ideas and the possibility of a change of perspective; however, challenges include the high level of effort and necessary pedagogical skills, as well as patience and perseverance on the part of the project initiators. Finally, the results of the survey enable recommendations to be made for better implementation of youth participation in relevant projects.