Study 2022: Young People in The Hague’s Schilderswijk, Laakkwartier, and Moerwijk
摘要
The city of The Hague, renowned as the International City of Peace and Justice, faces the challenge of imparting this identity to its youth, particularly in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 16, which emphasises peace, justice, and strong public institutions. This study examines the perceptions of youth groups in the disadvantaged districts of Schildersbuurt, Laak, and Escamp regarding these themes as integral to The Hague’s identity. In March and April 2022, during the aftermath of stringent COVID-19 lockdowns and the escalation of the Ukraine conflict, a cohort of 78 young individuals aged 10–25 was surveyed one by one in a personal way, on paper, in the youth centres. The survey focused on their views of peace, justice, and security within their communities and educational environments, as well as on potential municipal engagement strategies aligned with the city’s motto and SDG 16. The results reveal that these youth groups experience significant discrimination and highlight the need for neighbourhood improvements, including better waste management, increased green spaces, and the presence of dedicated and approachable law enforcement officers. The chapter concludes with policy recommendations, inspired by the interviews with local youth.