Performative Governance and Territorial Stigmatization: The Case of AxelGro

Abstract

In recent years, territorial stigmatization has emerged as a growing field of study, focusing on how specific areas and their residents are perceived through negative stereotypes, representations, and social categorizations. The purpose of this thesis is to answer the research question: \textit{How does symbolic governance and performative actions in the project ’AxelGro’ unintentionally contribute to the (re)production of territorial stigmatization?}. It examines whether territorial stigmatization is perpetuated or challenged in the AxelGro project that took place on September 6th 2023 in Axelborg, Horsens. As a novel and innovative initiative within the Danish non-profit housing sector, AxelGro provides a valuable context for examining how territorial stigmatization might persist. By analyzing AxelGro’s symbolic governance practices and performative actions, this study explores how narratives frame problems and solutions in the non-profit housing sector. The thesis employs Maarten Hajers performative perspective on governance to establish a comprehensive analytical framework to understand how storylines, metaphors and discourse coalition contribute to shaping the perception of stigmatized neighborhoods. Using data from the event, such as minifilm, articles, and project description, the study aims to illuminate the complexities of territorial stigmatization. Conclusively, the thesis finds that, while AxelGro is a response to social challenges, its focus on "social mixing" and "integration" unintentionally reinforces stigmatizing narratives by presenting Axelborg as a community in need of external intervention. The study highlights a disconnect between residents' perspectives and those of external stakeholders, pointing to a conflict of interests. The thesis argues that AxelGro paradoxically both challenges and perpetuates stigma simultaneously. Despite this, the project has facilitated initial community engagement, laying the groundwork for stronger social ties and future empowerment.

Colophon: This page is part of the AAU Student Projects portal, which is run by Aalborg University. Here, you can find and download publicly available bachelor's theses and master's projects from across the university dating from 2008 onwards. Student projects from before 2008 are available in printed form at Aalborg University Library.

If you have any questions about AAU Student Projects or the research registration, dissemination and analysis at Aalborg University, please feel free to contact the VBN team. You can also find more information in the AAU Student Projects FAQs.

A master thesis from Aalborg University

Performative Governance and Territorial Stigmatization: The Case of AxelGro