(Anti-)Social Stockholm

Understanding interrelations of socio-spatial segregation

Master thesis (2020)

Authors

M. Scholten Architecture and the Built Environment

Contributors

M.M. Dabrowski Spatial Planning and Strategy - Architecture and the Built Environment (mentor)
B. Hausleitner Urban Design - Architecture and the Built Environment (mentor)
E. Mlecnik Housing Management - Architecture and the Built Environment (graduation committee member)
Faculty
Architecture and the Built Environment, Architecture and the Built Environment
Copyright: © 2020 Mark Scholten
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Published Date

02-07-2020

Language

English

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Faculty

Architecture and the Built Environment

Abstract

Under the influence of globalisation and neoliberal planning paradigms, socio-spatial segregation in Stockholm, Sweden has significantly risen. Its society has become more heterogeneous, with migrants often ending up in socially vulnerable suburbs in the periphery of metropolitan areas where a spiral of social exclusion and decline is kickstarted. This has caused social disorganisation, perpetual poverty and increased crime and vandalism, leading to stigmatisation and polarization. This is endangering effective decision-making to help improve socio-spatial integration, as migrants are depending on municipalities to respond to their needs. Past and current policy approaches have until now proved
ineffective to reduce segregation or to mitigate its negative externalities.

The project aims to adress the gap of knowledge as to how governance, social and spatial constructs interrelate with regards to segregation processes and its effects on society. It explores possibilities to create a shift towards a more comprehensive way of planning that incorporates a better understanding of these
processes, through a multi-scalar, complementary approach of strategic policy and design interventions. These interventions are tested in the Järva area in North-West Stockholm to investigate the potential for more socially sustainable development.

A multi-dimensional lens is proposed to grasp the interrelations in segregation processes and to better account for its implications in future development; viewing segregation as a historic process through a wider socio-cultural lens, forming a complementary dynamic and static perspective.