Over recent decades, many Western governments, including the Dutch government, have adopted collaborative governance strategies in urban (re)development, emphasizing citizen involvement in the decision-making process. While such participatory approaches can potentially promote justice within cities, they risk several implications. This thesis critically examines how participation is utilized, organized, and perceived in the context of urban (re)development in the Rotterdam neighborhood of Hoogvliet. The guiding research question is: ‘What is the role of citizen participation in the neighborhood regeneration strategy for the area of Hoogvliet in Rotterdam, and how can participatory governance be strengthened to support community engagement?’. To answer this question, a qualitative research approach was used, including an analysis of current participatory policies and practices and semi-structured interviews with three key stakeholder groups: public actors, private actors, and the civil society. The findings indicate that citizen participation is poorly integrated into the urban (re)development process of Hoogvliet, primarily due to two factors. First, existing policies fail to effectively support citizen participation, as their flexibility leaves public and private stakeholders with insufficient guidelines for meaningful engagement. Second, there seems to be lack of trust from the civil society towards the government, which affects the incentive for citizens to engage. To enhance a collaborative planning process where citizens actively take part in the process, it is crucial to address these issues first.

The rapid proliferation of urban gated communities in Bangkok posed significant challenges to the city's walkability, accessibility, and equitable development. The existing policy framework, including the Bangkok Masterplan 2024, lacked effective strategies to address the negative impacts of urban gating. This research investigated the root causes and effects of urban gating in Bangkok, focusing on the Lumpini area as a case study. By examining the physical manifestations of urban gating, understanding the perspectives of citizens, and analyzing the policy landscape through a socio-technical framework and ethnographic methods, this study aimed to bridge the gap between policy intentions and the lived experiences of residents, providing insights for more equitable and effective urban planning policies.

The research underscored the need for a more nuanced and comprehensive approach to urban planning in Bangkok, one that integrated the social, cultural, and psychological dimensions of urban gating alongside physical and economic factors. The study recommended the development of design guidelines that prioritize inclusivity and community well-being, as well as the implementation of effective communication strategies to foster public understanding and support for open and accessible urban environments. By addressing these critical areas, policymakers could create a more equitable and sustainable urban landscape in Bangkok, where the benefits of urban development are shared by all residents.