Master thesis : "What narratives, images and ideologies underlie and are transported by initiatives promoting social cohesion in Brussels' civil society, within the context of migration and diversity"

Abstract

This thesis conducts an examination the concept of social cohesion (SC) through a case study of the Molenbeek commune in Brussels, a highly diverse urban area often stigmatized in public discourse. The study critically examines the theoretical and practical value of SC, regarding the work of civil society organizations (CSOs) that are actively engaged in promoting social cohesion. Drawing on sociological and political science frameworks, the research analyzes SC’s multidimensional nature.

The thesis begins with a comprehensive literature review, identifying key schools of thought that have shaped the discourse on SC. It further delves into modern conceptualizations of SC, highlighting the ongoing tensions between culturalist and structuralist perspectives, particularly in the context of neoliberal policies in Europe.

The empirical analysis explores how CSOs operate within this context to foster SC and how the concept holds up in light of these. The findings reveal that while theoretical models of SC are applicable and valuable for analyzing CSOs' work in Molenbeek, these models often fall short in practical implementation. The study underscores the need for more action-oriented and context-sensitive approaches to social cohesion that can effectively address the specific challenges faced by marginalized communities.

This research contributes to the broader academic debate on social cohesion by linking theoretical insights with empirical data. The thesis concludes that a pluralistic and nuanced understandings of SC could be a way to enable actors in the field a tool for theory-based interventions in SC.