From online platforms to on-ground actions: synergies of digital and analog civic engagement in non-inclusive New Belgrade’s urban transformations

Milovanović Rodić, Danijela and Maruna, Marija and Teofilović, Vesna and Kočović De Santo, Milica (2025) From online platforms to on-ground actions: synergies of digital and analog civic engagement in non-inclusive New Belgrade’s urban transformations. In: 10th International Academic Conference on Places and Technologies: Keeping up with technologies to shape joyful cities, Belgrade, 22-23 may 2025. University of Belgrade ; Faculty of Architecture, Belgrade, pp. 402-408. ISBN 978-86-7924-383-6

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Abstract

This research examines the institutional and spatial changes in New Belgrade's blocks and waterfront development, focusing on the roles of civil society and local communities in these processes. It highlights non-transparent redevelopment plans and persistent community opposition. By combining document analysis, internet content analysis, and qualitative methods, the study underscores the importance of social media and online platforms in fostering social cohesion, interaction, and engagement. The Sava Quay is one of 25 urban units that, due to its architectural, urban, and technical-technological signifi cance, holds great importance in the history of modern architecture in Serbia. However, it is not formally protected by the state and has suffered signifi cant degradation due to neglect and illegal development. The new redevelopment plans, promising economic growth and progress, are being developed through opaque and non-inclusive processes. As a result, these plans have faced sustained resistance from local communities. These communities have organized numerous participatory actions to protect their spaces and advocate for more transparent and inclusive institutional and spatial redesign processes. The primary aim of this research is to gain a deeper understanding of these participatory processes, addressing questions about how, where, and under what conditions collective practices and actions occur. It also examines the roles of social media and online platforms in fostering social cohesion and encouraging community participation. In addition to document analysis and data obtained through interviews and focus group discussions, the research relies on online content from the social network profi les of citizen groups that initiated, organized, and implemented signifi cant participatory activities. Their websites and social media profi les have been, and remain, vital tools for community information dissemination and participant mobilization, serving as key sources of documentary material. This study sheds light on the complex power dynamics within specifi c socio-spatial transformations, emphasizing the need for transparent, inclusive, just and accountable planning and governance practices.

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