Cycling Paradise, but for Whom? Amsterdam's Pursuit of Mobility Justice: Learning from Global Cities.

In this workshop, we aim to bridge research and policy gaps in urban mobility. Principles of mobility justice, inclusion and transport equity will be applied to craft adaptable policy recommendations for local transport in diverse cities. The workshop aims 1) to teach you how to integrate inclusion and equity into transport policy 2) to co-create a repository of global urban initiatives enhancing more just, equitable and inclusive transportation systems. Participants are therefore encouraged to prepare examples beforehand. However, this is not obligatory to join the workshop. Mobility justice literature examines the disparities in mobility shaped by power and inequality. The framework proposes ways in which these dynamics can be reshaped, fostering more just, equitable and inclusive mobilities in societies. Our research uses this framework to explore the needs of diverse communities through the lens of cycling. While mobility scholars advocate for new approaches to challenge urban systems, empirical research on applying these concepts to planning practices is scarce. Therefore, our study focused on deriving practical recommendations based on our findings specifically tailored for the City of Amsterdam. 1. Introduction to our research (30-40min): The workshop will report on the findings of our study on social equity and inclusion for the City of Amsterdam. Amsterdam is often a global reference for cycling, known for its well-developed infrastructure and high cycling rates. Still, equity and inclusion have yet to be incorporated into its cycling planning and policy. Our study, based on 22 community leaders from diverse minority groups in Amsterdam, sheds light on how mature cycling cities like Amsterdam can foster equitable and inclusive cycling policymaking. How does this translate to other urban contexts where cycling is less developed and other forms of transport are more relevant? What insights can we gather from cities that have shown significant progress in achieving equity within their mobility systems? 2. Developing context-specific policies (30-40min): The following section will be centred around a series of exercises designed to empower participants to apply the study’s frameworks and general findings to their local contexts. Through collaborative efforts, participants will use research insights to identify specific gaps and create targeted, equity-centred policy solutions that align with their unique scenarios and across different systems of transport. 3. Sharing of best practices (20min): Establishing a repository, as a curated collection of global case studies, shared by the participants. Participants will share case studies and examples of inclusive initiatives and policies from various global settings. The hosts will curate and transform this repository into a practical, shareable resource among participants. We encourage participants to prepare examples in advance but don't hesitate to join if you haven't had a chance – your spontaneous contributions are equally welcomed.