Planning, integration and younger generations : a study of their relation and implications on the Maltese built environment

Abstract

This dissertation focuses on the effects on the community and value added to younger generations and public spaces, through their introduction in the planning processes of such areas. The research looked into applicable literature, and further contributed towards reaching an understanding of the matter by means of a project in which children and youth who are currently residing in Malta were invited to take part in. The rights of younger generations have been analysed, which led to perceiving this sector of society not as a dependent minority but rather as a group which can contribute towards creating holistic spaces for the entire community. This was done in accordance with the comprehending of the true meaning of child and youth participation, its benefits and challenges, as well as by exploring projects which had already been carried out. Professionals in the field and people who work with children and youth organisations shared their knowledge and experience they gained through their courses of work, enriching the study. The results and outcomes generated were discussed to evaluate and extract the research findings, which allowed a critical analysis to be conducted. The conclusions reached proved that there is the need of greater involvement of younger generations within the built environment, with the research portraying a framework which is meant to be used as a set of guidelines for partakers who seek to integrate younger generations in the planning of our built environment.