Categoría Knowledge
Interview in Bizkaia Irratia about the K magazine (17.07.2024): "We analyse what is behind the real price of the "pintxo-pote""
ALC participates in the UIK summer course "Arantzazun bizi: iragana, orainaldia eta etorkizuna zer?"
The course will take place in Arantzazulab on 22 and 23 July, with the aim of exploring and deepening the identity and meaning of Arantzazu as a space of reference for Basque society. Through the joint analysis of the natural and cultural trails that link the future of Arantzazu with that of the Basque Country, the aim is to understand the contribution of this place in the formation of a diverse and united community. The session seeks to address essential questions about the continuity of the legacy of figures such as Gandiaga and Azurmendi, as well as about the creation of new forms of cooperation. In addition, research will be carried out on how Arantzazu can continue to be a meeting and reflection point to respond to the complex challenges of the future.
Agirre Lehendakaria Center (ALC) will participate in the roundtable "Euskal Herriaren etorkizuna Arantzazu-tik: Behar al dugu gure herriaren biziraupenerako sustraiko gaien inguruan herri anbizioz aritzeko eta pentsamendu berria sortzeko gunerik?" which will take place on 23 July, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., together with Urko Aiartza Azurtza, director of TMelab; Mireia Zárate Aguirre, director of the Sabino Arana Fundazioa; Naiara Goia Imaz, director of Arantzazulab; and with Antonio Casado da Rocha from the UPV/EHU as moderator.
Evaluating the Efficacy of Social Innovation Programming at Advancing Rural Development in the Context of Exogenous Shocks
An article by Work4Progress partners Mauricio Espinoza, Rodrigo Rivarolam Ricardo Fort and Joshua Fisher for the Sustainability journal.
This paper designs and deploys an experimental approach to evaluate the efficacy of a social innovation initiative implemented in rural communities situated in the highlands of Peru, which confronted the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in the midst of its implementation. Using three rounds of information collected before, during, and after participation, the efficacy of the social innovation economic development approach at increasing household livelihoods is examined. The study presents robust, statistically significant improvements in household economic well-being, food security satisfaction, and community outlook for participating households compared to non-participating households following program engagement. The results suggest that the social innovation program facilitated a notable restructuring of the portfolio of household income and livelihood activities towards more lucrative and value-added pursuits. This transition manifested in increased involvement in entrepreneurial ventures and specialized labor associated with both agricultural and non-agricultural sectors while distancing from traditional agricultural and livestock-related endeavors. The income gains stemming from self-employment activities and wage labor outweigh the losses incurred from reduced agricultural and livestock earnings. Furthermore, the analysis underscores the resilience of innovative income-generating pathways in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, outperforming traditional agrarian value chains. These findings highlight the efficacy of social innovation programming in facilitating economic development and also shed light on sustainable strategies for economic resilience amidst unforeseen challenges such as the recent global health crisis.
ALC participates in the conference organised by the Department of Health of the Basque Government to improve health and well-being in the community
In November last year, the project "Promoting local community action to enhance health and well-being" was launched in the Basque Country, financed by the European Union and with technical advice from the OCDE. This project is being developed by various institutions, agents and entities that operate at the community level in the Basque Country.
In this context, on 2 July 2024 we participated in the panel discussion "What lessons or strong ideas can be derived for the Basque Country?" at the conference "Promoting local community action to enhance health and well-being", organised by the Department of Health of the Basque Government and the OECD, with the aim of analysing the progress made so far and sharing good practices from the international arena.
The panel had various people linked to community action to bring the lessons presented throughout the day to fruition, in order to draw conclusions on how they can be applied in the context of the Basque Country. We participated together with Rosana Peiro, Coordinator of XarxaSalut; Elena Albisua Kortazar, Deputy Director of Public Health of Gipuzkoa; Rafael López Arostegi, Department of Welfare, Youth and Demographic Challenge; and Inés Urieta, who was in charge of moderating the session.
We presented our approach based on Developmental Evaluation compared to traditional evaluation systems, which allows us to monitor in real time the approach to complex challenges, and how we are already working through this approach in the field of health and care.
Interview in Euskadi Irratia about the K magazine (26.06.2024): "The magazine has a double objective: it aims to lay on the table the future challenges of Basque society from a critical perspective and to encourage citizen participation"
Promoting community coordination through the co-creation of the first “lokarriak” table in the Compassionate Community of Getxo
On April 25, 2024, a collective sensemaking took place, to contrast the most significant changes and the portfolio of agents and initiatives of Getxo Zurekin, and the Compassionate Community that has been formed in the municipality through this process. From this session, the need of generating a space and/or tool that allows the coordination of the different agents that participate in the existing resources and/or that are positioned as a gateway between them and the community arised. To this end, Agirre Lehendakaria Center, in collaboration with the Getxo Bihozbera association and Fundación Doble Sonrisa, convened a session on 14 June to address this new opportunity in the articulation of the Compassionate Community of Getxo through the co-creation of a “lokarriak” table.
The session was attended by approximately 30 people, including people involved in the Compassionate Community of Getxo (Fundación Doble Sonrisa, Getxo Zurekin and Getxo Bihozbera), social and health personnel from the area (Romo Kultur Etxea, primary care, community nurses, palliative care units), officials of the Getxo City Council, third sector associations linked to Getxo Zurekin and the Deputy Directorate of Osakidetza.
Most significant changes in perceptions
To contextualize the session, the metanarratives that operate in the ecosystem and that reflect the most significant changes of the Developmental Evaluation process that occurred in the Compassionate Community from 2017 to 2024 were presented.
Although these profiles were already contrasted in depth in the session of April 25, new reflections emerged, such as the importance of networking between the different agents of the Compassionate Community; the need for a mapping and visualization of the different lokarriak figures that exist both in third sector entities and in public institutions; the relevance of the community as a fundamental pillar in care; or the challenge of public health in terms of the agility of care.
Co-creation of the “lokarriak” table
For the second part of the session, the attendees worked at tables with other agents of the ecosystem, for 50 minutes, on a prototype canva, to answer the following questions:
- What are the key actors, institutions and people in the ecosystem.
- Who we are targeting, the specific segments of the population involved in care.
- At what territorial level is it intended to act.
- How we communicate, both internally and externally.
- What are the connections with existing initiatives in the ecosystem.
- What are the key activities and how they are going to be developed, what is the role of the agents in them.
- What are the key resources, both material and human.
- What financing model could the prototype have.
- What is the time horizon for the implementation of the prototype.
- What is the added value of the prototype.
- How we evaluate the prototype.
Subsequently, the groups shared their work, resulting in the following prototype canva:
Closure of the session
The space was perceived as an opportunity to get to know each other, generate networks of trust and work collaboratively for the benefit of the community. In addition, the need to create this kind of spaces on a regular basis and to specify the topics and needs discussed at the meeting was expressed. As a first step, several people suggested starting with a mapping of the existing resources in Getxo, to share it with the rest of the agents.
K Magazine, promoting the transformation of Basque society
K magazine is a publication of Agirre Lehendakaria Center, the Social Innovation Center created in 2013 by the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) in collaboration with AC4-Columbia University in New York, which promotes community transformation processes through open Social Innovation Platforms based on culture as a driver of change.
With the aim of collectively reflecting on the challenges we face on the road to Sustainable Human Development and promoting the transformation of Basque society, we launched, on our tenth anniversary, issue 0 of the K magazine on an experimental basis. This issue collected the lines of work of the center and an approach to the major challenges we face as a society.
After the issue zero, we are launching the first issue of K magazine, "What is Basque gastronomy today?", in which we focus on gastronomy and food systems, considering them driving forces for social transformation.
With the aim of reflecting collectively on these issues, we collaborate with various agents who address key aspects of the sector from social innovation, such as, Unai Pascual (Basque Center for Climate Change - BC3), the chef Eneko Atxa, the journalist Sasha Correa (Basque Culinary Center), Rocío Sánchez (BIAAF - Bilbao International Art and Fashion), the writer Harkaitz Cano, Gipuzkoako Ostalaritza Elkartea (the catering association from Gipuzkoa, Basque Country), EDE Foundation and elBullifoundation. The photographs are by Vicente Paredes and the design by Angélica Barco.
K magazine is a gift distributed free of charge and on request.
ALC accompanies the Barcelona Provincial Council in three Collective Sensemaking sessions for the development of strategic education plans
The week of the 3rd of June, Agirre Lehendakaria Center (ALC) accompanied the Barcelona Provincial Council in three collective sensemaking sessions in the municipalities of Sant Andreu de la Barca and La Garriga. Through the social innovation approach, ALC continues with the Developmental Evaluation of the process of developing local education plans, which began at the beginning of 2023. This approach makes it possible to map existing agents and initiatives in the ecosystem, identify and foster connections between them, identify challenges and opportunities in educational and social matters in the local context through in-depth listening processes and co-create axes, strategic lines and local educational objectives that are materialized in long- and medium-term programs or actions.
ALC collaborates with the Barcelona Provincial Council and city councils to achieve two key objectives: on the one hand, to support city councils in the development of a local education plan in a participatory and collaborative way, actively involving the entire educational community; and, on the other, to install the capacities of the social innovation approach (mapping, listening, collective sensemaking, co-creation and co-design) in the municipalities, allowing the technicians involved to actively participate in the development process and ensuring its sustainability in the future.
Collective sensemaking, one of the fundamental pillars of the Developmental Evaluation process, is based on the contrast of the information extracted during the mapping and deep listening process. To collect this information and learn about the perceptions of the agents in this ecosystem, the city councils of the two municipalities, together with the Barcelona Provincial Council and the ALC team, have created various spaces for listening and conversation in primary schools, institutes and art schools; collecting the voices of students, teachers, administrative and maintenance staff, monitors and canteen staff, as well as the AMPA-AFAs (student families’ associations), among others.
Development of a local education plan in Sant Andreu de la Barca
The first collective sensemaking session took place on June 4 in the municipality of Sant Andreu de la Barca. This was attended by students, teaching staff, management positions of different educational centers, members of the associations of families and students (AFAs), educators and technicians of the City Council of Sant Andreu de la Barca, among others. In the session, the ethnographic profiles or patterns and the narratives identified in the listening process were contrasted. These profiles represent patterns of the narratives that are repeated and operate in the territory (perceptions, behavior, thinking).
Likewise, this space served to discuss various issues that interest and concern the community: school dropout, the expansion of the offer of training cycles, the maintenance of educational centers, the participation of families, the NESE (Necessitats Específiques de Suport Educatiu - specific needs for educational support) and collaborative and networking work.
Development of a local education plan in La Garriga
On the morning of 6 June, a working session was held with the technicians of the City Council of La Garriga, with the aim of contrasting the profiles and narratives collected during the listening process and identifying the challenges and opportunities of each area, the proposals for improving current services and how cross-cutting work can be reinforced.
On the afternoon of June 6, the second collective sensemaking session with the educational community was held, this time in the municipality of La Garriga. The session was attended by approximately 40 people, from various educational centers and entities, students of the Infants' Council and members of the associations of families and students (AFAs) and families, among others.
In addition to contrasting profiles and narratives, the participants addressed various issues that concern the educational community. The cultural capital and power dynamics in La Garriga were discussed, and how these can be harnessed to help the neediest families, who often remain invisible. Likewise, the importance of the participation of families and the shared responsibility between them and the educational center was highlighted, as well as the NESE (specific educational support needs) and the improvement of guidance and accompaniment programs. In addition, the children shared their perceptions about the premature use of screens and mobile phones, and how this can negatively influence their childhood.
Social Innovation Platform approach to support the Knowledge Management Platform at Terasmitra, Indonesia
In its ongoing Operational Phase VII (OP7), the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme (SGP) in Indonesia is dedicated to supporting community organizations and civil society groups across four landscapes: the Sabu Raijua District (part of the Savu Sea National Park in East Nusa Tenggara Province), the Nantu Boliyohuto Wildlife Reserve buffer zone (Gorontalo Province), the Balantieng Watershed (South Sulawesi Province), and the Bodri Watershed (Central Java Province). The main objective is to develop adaptive landscape management strategies that strengthen social, economic, and ecological resilience, while fostering global environmental and local sustainable development benefits. However, considerable barriers stand in the way. From limited knowledge and technical expertise to financial constraints and advocacy gaps, communities face multifaceted challenges that impede their transition to sustainable practices. Recognizing these obstacles, OP7 of the GEF SGP for Indonesia highlights the critical role of developing knowledge management and communication strategies, which becomes a system for obtaining and processing shared knowledge to overcome such barriers. Therefore the “KM7 Platform” is the creation of a Knowledge Management platform for grassroots knowledge and project managers in SGP Indonesia Phase 7. The knowledge management and communication strategy will also be important as a main reference guide considering the multi-stakeholder nature of GEF SGP Indonesia implementations – from communities, CBOs/CSOs/NGOs, government, as well as beneficiaries and public in general. In addition, the GEF SGP Indonesia programme also draws support from various stakeholders such as relevant ministries/government institutions, regional governments, and other development partners for its implementation.
First visualization of the SIP approach to support the KM7
Agirre Lehendakaria Center (ALC) is providing methodological support in the different elements that compose the social innovation approach (SIP) applicable to the KM7 platform. This support includes providing tools to enhance systems mapping, deep listening, collective interpretation, and portfolio co-creation capabilities. Additionally, ALC is assisting in the creation of a digital monitoring tool, which will serve as a space to bring together developmental evaluation capabilities and visualize the process and its evolution. This will enable all actors involved to share their initiatives and effectively collect tactical knowledge and will also function as a communication product.
Prior to the missions, ALC provided three training sessions on the various elements comprising the social innovation approach and offered methodological support to the involved teams to help them prepare for the mission.
In April, the Terasmitra team conducted their first field visit to the communities of the Balantieng watershed in South Sulawesi and the Bodri watershed in Central Java. They carried out activities as part of the listening process, using tools such as participatory observations and conversations to collect data related to the culture and local knowledge of the communities.
The main objective of this initial mission was to map the ecosystem and identify new initiatives and key stakeholders to collaborate in enhancing the knowledge management tool. Throughout their mission, the Terasmitra team collaborated with local partners, engaged with key stakeholders, and interacted with community members. Their aim was to learn about local practices, understand perspectives and barriers, and explore ways to engage with the entire ecosystem.
Balantieng Watershed Area
In the Balantieng Watershed Area, South Sulawesi (DAS Balantieng, Sulawesi Selatan), the first village they visited was the Manjalling Village, where they encountered various traditional activities that contribute to the community's livelihood and cultural heritage. One of them is the Ma’teke Pare, which involves transporting agricultural goods like rice using horses, providing an eco-friendly solution to inaccessible areas.
Another aspect of local knowledge identified by the team was the production of dried seaweed products, which are sourced locally, sun-dried, and sold, showcasing the village's coastal resources. The coconut leaf roofs, crafted by Mrs. Syamsiah, offer durable and natural roofing solutions, sustaining local traditions and utilizing readily available materials. Additionally, Wala Suji, a symbolic gate resembling traditional tribal houses, signifies important events like weddings, reflecting cultural identity and continuity. Appatinro Bine, a ritual ceremony, honors rice plants and marks the planting season, fostering community unity and reverence for nature. In Desa Bajiminasa village, Mr. Saparudin practices Mattanra Wettu, a traditional system guiding optimal times for activities based on Bugis beliefs, promoting planning and cultural preservation.
Mappatumbu, a pre-harvest tradition led by traditional leaders, symbolizes gratitude and harmony with nature, emphasizing community bonds and agricultural sustainability. In Anrang Village, rituals like Panaung Riere and Salo Tana express gratitude to nature and ancestors, maintaining social cohesion and environmental stewardship. Ambaung Bala, once a collective effort to build houses, reflects communal solidarity and mutual support, though it has waned in modern times. Mr. Abdul Haris Mubarak's craftsmanship in Gambus highlights the cultural significance of music in local traditions, preserving heritage amid evolving cultural landscapes.
System mapping In the Balantieng Watershed to reinforce the KM7
In the Balantieng Watershed extension, Terasmitra has identified the main stakeholders who are active in the region and are key players in the development of the Knowledge Management Tool. Among these actors is Komunitas Swabina Pedesaan Salassae (KSPS), known for its network of learning circles dedicated to agricultural advances, particularly in seed and soil breeding. Its commitment to agricultural innovation underlines its role in ensuring the agricultural sustainability of the river basin.
Similarly, BUMDES Tumarila collaborates with Terasmitra on the Kampung School program. Together, they harness indigenous wisdom to promote community empowerment, using local knowledge to create products and establish production bases. The Beranda Komunitas promotes vitality within the watershed through its community product market network, strengthening economic opportunities while advocating for local products and sustainability.
The Jember District Coffee and Cocoa Research Centre, PT Riset Perkebunan Nusantara - Koperasi Kahayya, a partner of Terasmitra, drives innovation in coffee and cocoa cultivation, promoting sustainable practices for the benefit of the watershed and its inhabitants.
Bodri Watershed region
After the Balantieng Watershed, the team moved on to the Bodri Watershed region. In this area, they visited Wonosari Village. There, they met Mbah Sipah, a traditional massage therapist who specializes in baby massage using a unique concoction called 'Wedak'. This concoction comprises traditional spices such as saffron-colored rice, lemongrass, tamarind, fennel, and salt, mixed with warm water. Mbah Sipah also crafts herbal medicines using ingredients like Temulawak, Widowati plant, and Shampoo Ginger, believed to treat various ailments.
In this village they encountered Mr. Ngarimin, a member of LMDH Wana Lestari.- One of the key stakeholders who shared about traditional food security practices in Wonosari Village. These include using Pranggokan and Grobog for temporary and permanent food storage, respectively.
In the Wonosari area, there are still many houses made of teak wood and pyramid-shaped, called Limasan, which is a traditional house from the Central Java region that has earthquake-resistant properties.
Moving forward, the team engaged with Mr. Nardi, who delved into the process of tobacco farming and harvesting traditions, such as the 'Wiwitan Mbako' ritual. Recognizing the adverse effects of tobacco cultivation on the environment, the MDH Rimba Lestari Institute has initiated coffee planting initiatives for reforestation. Tobacco plants are known to be inherently self-serving, exhibiting poor soil absorption and an aversion to coexistence with other plants. In response, the group has taken up the mission to rejuvenate the land through coffee cultivation. With its superior absorption capabilities and the suitability of the area for coffee cultivation, this endeavor serves as a model for residents to transition gradually to coffee farming, paving the way for environmental sustainability.
In Igirimranak village, the Terasmitra team collaborates with Samitra Lingkungan, an organization dedicated to empowering women's groups through training on agricultural product processing, such as making potato donuts. Additionally, they focus on environmental conservation through tourism development and tree planting initiatives. This effort stems from the prevalence of annual crops like potatoes in the area, which, despite their culinary appeal, contribute to significant environmental challenges due to their poor water absorption, leading to soil erosion and decreased fertility. Furthermore, the region heavily relies on chemical fertilizers. To tackle these issues, the Samitra group facilitated the establishment of a tourist attraction called Sky Blue Village and actively participates in tree planting activities, including lemon trees.
Moreover, during their stay in Merti Village, they witnessed rituals expressing gratitude for the harvest, using the Ubo Rampe equipment, and enjoyed traditional foods like Pethot. They also gained insights into local agricultural practices and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. Furthermore, they observed the tradition of using small and large Bucu (tumpeng) to symbolize agricultural abundance and participated in dances depicting environmental damage, aimed at raising awareness about environmental issues. The event commenced with a procession and proceeded to the Permaculture Area, where they engaged in various activities.
Continuing their visit, they went to Igirmranak Village, where Mr. Joko Tri Sadono shared insights into spring festivals and rituals glorifying nature. They explored traditions like Ruwatan Gimbal and the use of braziers as communal gathering spots.
At Kemuning Village, another key stakeholder, the JAWI Institution, plays an important role. This institution operates in one of the remaining lowland forests in Central Java, which is still well-maintained. Here, many protected animals, including the Owa, can be found. Nearly all the land in this area is dedicated to coffee cultivation, which forms the backbone of the local economy. Leveraging these factors, the JAWI Institution aims to conserve wildlife and the environment concurrently. They have devised a program where purchasing coffee includes a donation for the conservation of Owa and other animals in the Kemuning forest.
In Pidodo Kulon Village, there is a key stakeholder, P3MP, a group dedicated to environmental conservation, particularly along the coast. According to them, the area faces significant challenges such as coastal erosion, posing a threat to the local community. The region's reliance on shrimp and milkfish ponds makes it susceptible to abrasion. To address these issues, the group actively engages in environmental conservation activities, including mangrove planting to mitigate sand and wave impact. Furthermore, they play a crucial role in raising awareness about environmental issues among young people. (See image 6)
In Tempelsari Village, KOLING (Konservasi Lingkungan/Environmental Conservation), an institution dedicated to environmental conservation, has recently resumed its activities after a hiatus. They have partnered with local stakeholders like Pak Mustakim, a former two-term village secretary and native of Tempelsari Village. During the deep listening, he shared insights into the rich biodiversity of Tempelsari Village, which includes various flora and fauna. Despite being rarely encountered by residents, species such as wild boars, Luwak, Langur, Skunk, Jelarang, Javan Eagle, and Hedgehog still inhabit the region. With KOLING's assistance, Pak Mustakim identified and confirmed sightings of these animals, some of which are believed to have medicinal properties. For instance, fried squirrels are considered beneficial for diabetes, while Skunk is used to alleviate itching. Additionally, sparrow ants are believed to boost immunity.
Furthermore, the people of Tempelsari Village cultivate empon-empon (medicinal herbs) in their yards, with ginger being a commonly used remedy for flu and fever. These herbs also serve as seasoning in local cuisine. One plant of particular importance is Pari Gogo, harvested annually due to the area's cold climate. Presently, a small group of 3–4 individuals in Tempelsari Village cultivate Pari Gogo for personal consumption, highlighting the community's ongoing commitment to traditional practices.
In Simpar Village, the name derives from a traditional game played by children using broken tiles, known as "Simpar." Mbah Tri, a respected elder in the village, preserves the Jaranan art form alongside his farming duties. Before performances, he seeks blessings from Nyai Susilowati at a sacred spring in the village. Rituals accompany every celebration in Simpar Village, with water from the sacred spring mixed into dishes for smoothness and enjoyment. Despite the spring's age being unknown, its flow remains unchanged and is used for washing during pilgrimages to the sacred ancestral grave. Water conservation is a priority in Simpar Village, with residents adhering to practices that maintain the spring's integrity. The area above the spring serves as a rehearsal space for Jaranan performances.
The Kontak Tani Nelayan Andalan (KTNA) Tretep is a group highly engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry. Dominated by young individuals aged 18–40, KTNA aims to destigmatize farming among the youth and advocate for environmental issues. The group undertakes various activities, including processing agricultural waste into fertilizer from livestock manure. Recently, they administered vaccines to approximately 1500 sheep, showcasing their commitment to sustainable practices and community involvement. Lastly, in Simpar Village, Mbah Tri highlighted the origin of the village's name and discussed traditions like Jaranan performances and the Wiwitan ritual to bless agricultural endeavors. They also learned about water conservation practices and the importance of preserving cultural rituals.
First visualization of the system mapping In the Bodri Watershed to reinforce the KM7
In the Bodri watershed, various organizations and stakeholders are actively working in the area in the conservation efforts. The Bodri Watershed Forum collaborates closely with the local government, including the Wonosari Village Government, Tretep District Government, and Pemdes (Village Government) Bans and Tretep. LabDes, a newly partnered institution of SGP7, focuses on water and soil conservation, particularly in the Bodri watershed area, and promotes local wisdom and knowledge. KOLING, another partner, utilizes local knowledge to support programs like Village Schools and collaborates with TM in forming knowledge products and production bases. Additionally, the involvement of agricultural services such as Temanggung Regency Agriculture and Fisheries Service and BPP Tretep District, along with organizations like Perhutani KPH Kendal and CV. Tanindo, underscores the multidisciplinary approach to ecosystem mapping and conservation in the Bodri watershed. Moreover, the engagement of local communities, represented by organizations like PT BMS (Samitra Environmental partner), Tunas Harapan Farmer Cadets, and Ambarawa Agrotani Nursery, reflects a grassroots effort to preserve and sustain the local environment.
Learnings
Reflecting on their experiences, the team identified key lessons learned and challenges encountered in the first mission. They recognized that building relationships and seeking connections with local partners was crucial for fostering open dialogue and trust, facilitating deeper engagement and understanding. Post-mission evaluations and reflections helped enhance their learning, allowing them to adjust their approaches and strategies for subsequent missions. The team also acknowledged the importance of capturing and communicating the voices and stories of the communities they encountered through various listening channels such as videos, photos, conversations, and participatory observation.
Moving forward, the team is committed to improving deep listening, delving deeper into the challenges faced by communities, and seeking to identify new ideas that can be incorporated into the knowledge platform. They aim to deepen existing connections between key actors and foster relationships with new ones that may emerge. In late May and mid-June, they plan to visit the two remaining communities, Sabu Raijua in East Nusa Tenggara and SM Nantu and Tahura in Gorontalo. Additionally, plans for the contrast and co-creation sessions will be considered as a next step.
Alternative spaces for collective interpretation: imagining a new care system through the kitchen
Oxfam Intermón and Agirre Lehendakaria Center (ALC) promoted a listening process to understand in depth the perceptual diversity that exists around the current care system, with a focus on the municipality of Getxo (Euskadi) and the district of Nou Barris (Catalonia).
As part of the collaboration between Oxfam Intermón and ALC, a collective interpretation session was held on 22 October 2023 at the San Martín parish (Algorta, Euskadi). The purpose of this meeting was to deepen the listening process and include elements of co-creation in the study of care through a culinary exercise.
In the dynamics of collective interpretation contextualized in the gastronomic field, the table represents the space where culture converges. People of different nationalities or religions come to this table to share ingredients and experiences, which encourages the generation of stories, rites and values that, when shared, are transformed into a shared language that overcomes linguistic differences.
After the presentation of the dynamic and its objectives, participants were encouraged to share an ingredient that encapsulates their history or identity. This exercise is intrinsically linked to the concept of participatory ethnographic research that is articulated around the idea of "culinary autoethnography", in which individuals, by choosing and sharing their ingredient of choice, contribute to the collective construction: "food and drink are carriers of history and culture" (Mintz, 1985). Likewise, this exercise allowed the creation of an environment based on equality and empathy that, by stripping away pre-existing hierarchies, allowed the participants to feel comfortable enough to intervene freely in the dynamics.
Subsequently, the culinary activities were presented and divided among participants, for the preparation of the menu of the day. The preparations included elements of Moroccan, Latin American and Basque cuisine, thus merging the culture and culinary roots of the participants.
While they roasted the bread, cut and baked the vegetables, beat the dessert ingredients or seasoned the meat, the ALC team encouraged the conversation around the care system through a listening space:
How do you see yourself being cared by others?, Who do you think is going to take care of you?, What will happen when we reach an old age in which we can no longer fend for ourselves?, How do we imagine that next stage, that future?, Who has the responsibility to solve it?, Can a comprehensive care system be demanded?, were some of the questions that were laid on the table.
Throughout the session, it was possible to delve into the narratives identified the previous months of work.
