Doing Inclusion: Negotiation and Co-creation for People-centric Smart Cities

Abstract

As datafied smart cities emerge, existing inequalities deepen and new forms of exclusions emerge. In response, terms such as “inclusive” and “people-centric” are now central to smart city agendas, yet their inclusivity remains contested. This contribution brings together perspectives from media studies, public governance, and urban studies to clarify inclusion in smart cities. We identify three perspectives: (1) technological inclusion (access to technology and information); (2) digital social inclusion (cultural sensitivity, diversity, and representation); and (3) doing inclusion (negotiation and co-creation). Using two empirical cases, we explore research-by-design approaches to foster inclusion. Finally, we argue that inclusion in smart cities emerges through dynamic, conflictual relationships and ongoing negotiations between citizens, governments, and other stakeholders over contentious issues like datafication.