Society. Spaces. Screens

Abstract

Smart city initiatives are being recognized as viable responses to modern urban challenges with the potential to enhance collective capacity for urban planning. Central to the operational framework of smart cities are the concepts of multi-level governance and co-creation among diverse stakeholders, including local communities, governmental entities, non-governmental organizations, and private enterprises. Especially, the active involvement of community members in decision-making processes enables smart city projects to reflect the unique socio-cultural and environmental characteristics of their local contexts. This inclusive approach increases the likelihood of successful implementation while promoting long-term sustainability through shared ownership and mutual benefits. However, recent studies have identified significant limitations in existing engagement models, with criticisms focusing on the exclusion of citizen voices and the marginalization of vulnerable and underrepresented groups. These concerns raise important questions about the inclusivity of smart cities and challenge their capacity to ensure equitable access to the benefits of smart technologies and applications for all segments of society. Building on the above, this paper critically examines existing engagement tools within the framework of inclusivity, with a particular focus on the role of grassroots initiatives in promoting social inclusion and environmental justice within smart cities. Using specific case studies from Barcelona’s smart city initiatives, we challenge the conventional understanding of “smart citizenship,” arguing that the concept of being “smart” should not be confined solely to technological advancements.