Cultures of Assembly

Project by Markus Miessen, César Reyes, Marija Maric, Francelle Cane, Hannes Grassegger

COA space 24 Rue du Brill in Esch. Photo Markus Miessen.

Committed to the study and promotion of para-institutional civic assemblies, experiences of decentralised power, and decision-making structures that seek spatial justice in cities, Cultures of Assembly is a project of the Chair of the City of Esch at the University of Luxembourg, directed by Prof. Dr. Markus Miessen.

The Esch Clinics 02. On Deliberation with DemocracyNext. Photo Marija Mari?.

The project develops a transversal format consisting of a digital platform and an open neighbourhood agency in the centre of Esch-sur-Alzette. Our methods include situated-context explorations, immersive research through oral histories to learn from local citizens and their heterogeneous experiences, and the setting of agonistic assemblies in order to generate productive friction between relevant stakeholders. Our strategy is to investigate at street level in close interdependence with the city’s diverse social actors and their spontaneous use of non-regulated spaces. This is the first stage of a long-term research project seeking to promote civic assemblies and propose inclusive-policy recommendations for city regeneration, taking into consideration the contribution of underrepresented groups in the construction of a rich and diverse urban environment.

COA Printed matter. Photo Markus Miessen.

The Esch Clinics 01. Intergenerational housing meeting. Photo Markus Miessen.

The Esch Clinics 01. On Streetwork meeting. Photo Markus Miessen.

The project is a result of an agreement between the University of Luxembourg and the city of Esch and forms part of the Chair of the City of Esch, supported by the Department of Geography and Spatial Planning.

culturesofassembly.org

Address
24 Rue du Brill, 4041 Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg

Team
Markus Miessen, César Reyes, Marija Maric, Francelle Cane, Hannes Grassegger

Design
Matthias Görlich, Marcel Strauß