Mechelen's citizens’ assembly in action: Co-creating for and with nature

Over the last decade, public participation has become key for successful urban transformation projects. These co-creative processes ensure that a diverse population’s creativity, needs and wishes are reflected in the reshaping of our cities. In particular, citizens’ assemblies have become a method of participatory governance empowering residents to contribute to urban development.

In the WATSUPS Citizens’ Assembly, the residents of Mechelen developed 15 basic principles for reconnecting the city with the River Dijle. What’s special about it? The voices of nature were not only expressed but shaped the outcomes. This article explores how the City of Mechelen sets new standards in public participation and shares insights into how urban areas can be co-created considering the needs of their inhabitants: humans, animals and plants.