Strengthening social cohesion: Citizen survey starts in Bavaria
Research social cohesion in Bavaria's rural regions: citizen surveys and participatory projects in Michelsneukirchen.

Strengthening social cohesion: Citizen survey starts in Bavaria
An exciting research project is being launched in rural areas of Bavaria that deals with social cohesion. The Nuremberg University of Technology has taken on this important topic and will carry out comprehensive investigations by 2026. This project is supported by the Bavarian State Ministry of Finance and Homeland and aims to capture citizens' opinions and ideas in order to strengthen social cohesion in their communities.
But what exactly does social cohesion mean? It's about the coexistence of local people, the feeling of being part of a community and the questions that affect the common good. In order to shed light on these aspects, three surveys and four in-depth projects will be carried out. Voices from different regions, from villages to small towns, are heard. Both long-established citizens and newcomers, young and old, are invited to share their perspectives. The project website is available for detailed information: www.heimatprojekt-bayern.de.
Participation and process
All citizens who live in rural communities that are listed in the Bavarian State Development Plan (LEP) are cordially invited to take part in the surveys. The first survey to look at local social relationships took place last year and the results can be viewed online. The next round begins on September 14, 2024 and runs until October 14, 2024. This second survey examines citizens' connection to their community. Those interested can use this link participate.
Why should you take part in this project? The insights gained from the surveys are of great importance for citizens and decision-makers. They help to better understand and further develop social cohesion in rural regions. The results will be continuously published on the project website so that everyone interested has the opportunity to find out about the progress. The results report of the first survey and a brochure about supporting seniors through neighborhood help are already available online.
Project manager and contact
The project is led by Prof. Dr. Sabine Fromm from the Nuremberg University of Technology. If you have any questions or would like further information, you can contact the project management at the email address heimatprojekt-bayern@th-nuernberg.de contact.