A Model of Urban and Socio-Technical Participation: Between Deliberative Democracy and Strong Governance—The Case of the City of Messina

Abstract

This paper deals with transformation processes in an area of Messina where post-earthquake (1908) slums still exist. Over the last few years, the area has undergone important changes, resulting in a new, rather complex neighborhood scenario, but one that has highlighted its importance as an example for the urban regeneration of the whole city. This essay focuses on the participatory processes adopted by an NGO to involve the residents and some of the more vulnerable occupants in a new model for socio-technical change regarding energy and eco-sustainability.