From the village core

The aim of the research is to enable joint learning among the participants by sharing and reflecting on each other’s stories and experiences. Building on this, the research seeks to generate insights into how communities (in small villages) can be strengthened in their community capacity, enabling them to shape social transitions from their own perspective. 

The underlying premise is that the research itself is community-strengthening, for example by supporting communities in making their own stories visible, or by organizing joint meetings between residents and policymakers as part of the research. 

The outcome of the research is primarily focused on making stories and experiences from the perspective of communities in small villages visible and shareable.

The research generates a diverse range of outputs. Stories are made shareable and publicly accessible through visual presentations (exhibitions). In addition, various meetings are organized throughout the research process, bringing together the different participants to learn from one another’s experiences in the Village Deal process. Finally, the research team produces written reports for each research track, detailing the research process.

The research is structured around three tracks. The first two tracks primarily focus on the stories from the villages and on how we can learn from these collectively. The third track focuses on the further participatory process of the Village Deal. 

Insights from the research and research activities are relevant for the Bachelor’s programme in Social Work and the Master’s programme in Community Development. In addition, the insights are of interest to a wide range of actors involved in strengthening communities. 

SDG 11

Province of Utrecht