Local Cultures – Global Spaces

Abstract

Contemporary island settlements and landscapes present a unique blend of urban and rural spaces, both socially and spatially. The concept of islandness, which encompasses various aspects of island living, remains a subject of debate, much like other abstract notions. Caught between the ideals of rural idyll, islandness, and smart island paradigms, islands face environmental threats and negative trends like depopulation and an aging population. It is essential to develop strategies that reimagine islands according to their specific local context, addressing the needs and challenges they encounter. We start from the premise that living on an island necessitates constant adaptation to challenging natural conditions and a social environment that lacks the conveniences of mainland living. This paper synthesizes Shucksmith’s (2018) model of a good countryside with Gkartzios et al.’s (2022) capitals framework to explore the concept of a “good island.” Through interviews with female participants, the study aims to capture the female perspective on envisioning potential futures of “good island” living. This perspective is often overlooked despite its significant contributions to shaping an ideal locale. Given the tourism-oriented nature of Croatian islands, it is crucial to explore possibilities for future island development that can create balanced and vibrant communities for local women. This research seeks to shed light on the culture of adaptation that characterizes island living, with a particular emphasis on the female perspective. By integrating different conceptual frameworks, the study aims to contribute to the understanding of what constitutes a “good island” and offer insights for sustainable island development that caters to the needs and aspirations of women residing on the islands.