Exploring the Intersectional Dimensions of Urban Green Spaces : A Study in the Holma Neighborhood of Malmo, Sweden

Abstract: This thesis serves as an introductory phase to a research project that aims to explore the intersectional dimensions of urban green spaces in the Holma neighborhood of Malmo, Sweden. By adopting a multi-faceted approach, the study delves into various interconnected themes, including intersectionality, spatial justice, neoliberal planning, the right to the city, green spaces, sensory ethnography, and the potential of community mapping. Through this comprehensive analysis, the research endeavors to offer a nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations in the context of urban renewal. Drawing upon the foundational works of scholars in urban studies and social theory, the research underscores the significance of spatial considerations in the manifestation of social inequalities. It acknowledges the role of intersecting social identities and experiences, highlighting how these factors collectively shape the lives of individuals residing in marginalized neighborhoods. Utilizing a mixed-method methodology, the study combines interviews, observations, and sensory ethnography to capture the diverse perspectives and experiences of residents within the selected community. Acknowledging the limitations imposed by time constraints and available resources, the thesis approaches its findings with a critical awareness of potential partial representations. The research outcomes shed light on the multifaceted dimensions of spatial inequalities, particularly concerning the availability of green spaces, access to adequate housing, and opportunities for meaningful participation in decision-making processes. Central to the thesis is the conceptual framework of the right to the city, advocating for the empowerment of marginalized communities to actively shape their urban environments and participate in the planning processes that affect them. Additionally, the thesis proposes community mapping as a promising avenue for future research endeavors. By involving community members in the planning process, this methodology seeks to amplify the voices of residents and engender more inclusive and equitable urban development. In conclusion, this thesis stands as a critical exploration of the intricate dynamics between urban transformation and marginalized communities. It advocates for transformative urban planning practices that prioritize spatial justice, recognizing the intersecting complexities that define urban experiences. By promoting inclusivity, sustainability, and participatory approaches, the research endeavors to contribute to the creation of urban spaces where every resident can assert their right to the city, accessing its resources and opportunities equitably. This study serves as a pilot initiative for a broader project with a profound mission: advocating for people's inherent right to urban green spaces. It lays the foundation for an expansive endeavor centered on community mapping, a powerful tool to illuminate and preserve the significance of these vital spaces within the fabric of urban life. By portraying these green areas as they are experienced and cherished by residents in their daily lives, the project seeks to prevent a recurrence of the situation witnessed in Rosengård, where these spaces were unjustly left unmapped and overlooked. 2 The larger project aspires to give voice to the community, emphasizing the invaluable role of these green spaces in shaping their identity, fostering connections, and enhancing their overall well-being. Through the lens of community mapping, these areas will be depicted with the authenticity they deserve, ensuring that their presence is acknowledged, understood, and integrated into urban planning and development initiatives. This effort is not just about mapping spaces; it's about asserting the rights of residents to access and enjoy the benefits of green spaces, promoting a more equitable and vibrant urban environment.