Social science in Amsterdam Nieuw-West: ‘What does peace mean to you?’
Not everyone in Amsterdam Nieuw-West feels safe. And safety is not always a given: on the streets, at home, and online. But what do residents themselves think? Social scientist Marije Luitjens posed the question: “What does peace mean to you?”
Bringing research to the neighbourhood
Marije Luitjens (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam) is a researcher interested in building a peaceful society. In Nieuw-West, she engages in conversations (and sometimes debates) about the question: what does peace really mean? And how can each of us, on a small or large scale, make a difference?
Marije shares: “It was a very interesting mix of participants, including an eight-year-old boy. That was especially fun because it gave me new insights into the meanings of—and capacities for—peace within a specific neighborhood.”
It now seems possible to explore whether this workshop can be adapted to make it accessible for 7th and 8th graders, which I think would be a great challenge.
Marie-Anne van Rijen (Program Manager VU IXA-GO) adds: “Marije is able to create a very open atmosphere, allowing participants to be vulnerable and share their experiences. When residents talk to each other about what peace means to them, it fosters greater understanding of each other’s perspectives. I’m proud that IXA-GO can contribute to this form of valorization!”
About Samen Nieuw-West
In Amsterdam Nieuw-West, residents generally have fewer opportunities for suitable employment and good health. Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and other partners of the National Program Samen Nieuw-West aim to contribute their expertise to meet residents’ needs by working together for equal opportunities for all. For example, by facilitating conversations among residents—just like Marije Luitjens does with her Peace & Safety workshop.
Visit the website of the National Program Samen Nieuw-West for more information.
