Co-creation in Public Services for Innovation and Social Justice  

This book examines the idea and practice of co-creation in public services. Informed by practical action, lived experience and research from 10 countries across Europe, it shines new light on the theory and reality of co-creation by conceptualising it in terms of human rights, social justice and social innovation. 

Focusing on human dimensions, the book presents real life examples in public services as diverse as social care, health, work activation, housing and criminal justice. It also highlights the ways digital technologies can accelerate or hinder co-creation. 

(Available Open Access digitally under CC-BY-NC-ND licence.) 

Reference: Voorberg, W. H., Bekkers, V., & Tummers, L. (Eds.). (2023). Co-creation in public services for innovation and social justice. Bristol University Press. https://doi.org/10.47674/9781529220302

Diversity and Inclusion Handbook for grass-root cultural centres 

This Handbook aims at reducing inequalities, empowering European cultural centres to improve their work with social inclusion & contribute to relevant Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). While it is specifically designed for cultural centres, its principles, models, and tools are highly transferable and can be adapted to a variety of contexts, including public services, community organisations, and educational institutions. It provides a diversity model that focuses on people, processes and tools, in addition to monitoring and reporting mechanisms, and insights on change management, thus offering a framework that can be applied broadly to improve diversity and inclusion efforts in different sectors. 

Reference: Tamimi, F. (2022). The diversity and inclusion handbook: Practical strategies for cultural centres. Trans Europe Halles.

Local Government Models of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Employment

This research article highlights that policies and programmes aimed at disadvantaged communities achieve greater effectiveness by recognising and addressing the specific needs of these communities in culturally conscious ways. Meaningful inclusion of community members in the development process and continuous feedback mechanisms are essential. Additionally, the research underscores the strength of utilising collaborations for implementation, emphasising the importance of securing commitments and buy-in from collaborators.  

Reference: Tsai, S. (2015). Local government models of diversity, equity, and inclusion in employment. UCLA Institute for Research on Labor and Employment. https://escholarship.org/uc/item/04x4z6xq

Cities of Welcome – Driving Integration and Equality in a Changing Europe

This report examines the critical role cities play in integrating migrants and refugees across Europe. Presented at the 11th Integrated Cities Conference, it highlights how cities are shaping inclusive policies and programmes to foster equitable societies.

The report features real-life examples of initiatives addressing housing, education, employment and social inclusion. Cities like Ghent and Rotterdam are recognised for their innovative approaches, including tailored language and education programmes, accessible services and inclusive communication strategies. These efforts underscore the power of local governance in bridging national policies with community needs and promoting equality for all.

Reference: Eurocities. (2024). Cities of welcome: Driving integration and equality in a changing Europe (6th Integrating Cities Report). Eurocities.

The relative effects of diversity on collective learning in local collaborative networks in Belgium

The article explores how diversity influences collective learning in collaborative networks, using two case studies from city administrations in Schaerbeek, Belgium. It finds that diversity enhances learning by bringing different perspectives, but this only works if social interactions are frequent and inclusive. The study emphasises the importance of both formal and informal interactions in fostering trust and collective understanding. It also suggests that subjective perceptions of diversity are more impactful for learning than simply having a diverse group. This has implications for collaborative governance and policy innovation. 

Reference: Carlier, N., Aubin, D., & Moyson, S. (2024). The relative effects of diversity on collective learning in local collaborative networks in Belgium. Policy & Politics, 52(4), 648-674. Retrieved Jan 31, 2025, from https://doi.org/10.1332/03055736Y2023D000000007

Diversity and inclusion in European museums: A report in collaboration with NEMO members 

This report delves into the practices and policies of European museums concerning diversity and inclusion. It provides an analysis of current challenges and showcases successful initiatives that promote inclusive representation and accessibility in museum spaces. The document serves as a resource for cultural institutions aiming to enhance their engagement with diverse audiences. 

Reference: Siung, J. (2024). Diversity and inclusion in European museums: Policies, practices, and challenges. Network of European Museum Organisations (NEMO).

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Resources for Local Governments   

The article explores how diversity influences collective learning in collaborative networks, using two case studies from city administrations in Schaerbeek, Belgium. It finds that diversity enhances learning by bringing different perspectives, but this only works if social interactions are frequent and inclusive. The study emphasises the importance of both formal and informal interactions in fostering trust and collective understanding. It also suggests that subjective perceptions of diversity are more impactful for learning than simply having a diverse group. This has implications for collaborative governance and policy innovation. 

Reference: Municipal Research and Services Center. (2025, January 30). Diversity, equity, and inclusion resources for local governments. MRSC.