Social space conference at the FHV

Around one hundred interested parties accepted the invitation to the third social space conference at the FHV. The annual event brings together stakeholders from Vorarlberg's social space in order to promote modern social planning and social innovation. This year, participation and involvement were emphasised as a central principle of social work. ‘I was impressed by the variety of ideas and concepts for more cooperation,’ summarised Carmen Hofer-Temmel, Head of the FHV Master's Social Work programme and Head of the Social Work competence field.

Joint decisions

Anja Sagara Ritter, sociocracy expert and owner of Anja Ritter | Soziokratie unternehmen, spoke in her lecture on the topic of circular structures as an organisational principle and how participation can be structurally anchored in organisations of all kinds. ‘Central to this are decision-making processes that do not ignore the needs and objections of individuals. Everyone is heard, nobody is ignored. People support what they themselves have created, i.e. what they have co-decided and shared responsibility for,’ she explains. Michael Lederer, Head of the Office for Volunteering and Participation, gave an insight into successful participation projects and the field of activity of his institution. Finally, FHV students on the extra-occupational Master's programme in Social Work, specialising in social space work, presented their seminar papers from the social planning course.

‘The social space conference enables the inclusion of practical experience, which is very valuable. We are convinced that, especially in difficult times, social answers and solutions can only be developed and sustainably implemented through the involvement of citizens, through the participation and involvement of all stakeholders in our society,’ explained Oliver Mössinger, UASI university lecturer in social work and co-organiser of the social space conference. In this context, State Councillor Martina Rüscher also emphasised that she had learned in recent years that she could rely on social cohesion, on the people of Vorarlberg, on an excellent social network and ultimately on committed social work.

Positive summary

It was also emphasised that Vorarlberg is well equipped. Referendums, plebiscites and surveys and other opportunities for participatory democracy have been enshrined in the Vorarlberg constitution since 2013. Mössinger summarised: ‘Despite the current numerous crises, there was a positive spirit of optimism among the participants. Times of crisis are necessary to create utopias.’