The Aftermaths of Participation: Outcomes and Consequences of Participatory Work with Forced Migrants in Museums

Participatory museum projects with forced migrants impact both the museum and the participants, as Susanne Boersma's study shows. It assesses projects in Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK and finds ways to unite them in practice.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 27 December 2022
Publisher: Transcript Verlag

Participatory museum projects with forced migrants have the potential to impact both the museum and the participants in significant ways. By engaging with diverse communities and sharing their stories, museums can foster a greater understanding of different cultures and experiences, promoting empathy and inclusivity. These projects can also provide opportunities for marginalized voices to be heard and to contribute to the broader cultural dialogue.

However, it is important to note that these projects can also face challenges. Museums may struggle to create meaningful and inclusive spaces for participants who may have experienced trauma or discrimination. Additionally, the goals and outcomes of participatory projects can vary widely, making it difficult to assess their impact and evaluate their success.

To address these challenges, museums can take a number of steps. They can work closely with community organizations and stakeholders to ensure that their projects are tailored to the specific needs and interests of the participants. They can also provide training and support to museum staff and volunteers to ensure that they are equipped to work effectively with diverse communities.

Furthermore, museums can use data and evaluation tools to measure the impact of their projects and to identify areas for improvement. This can help to ensure that participatory projects continue to evolve and grow, and that they continue to make a positive difference in the lives of the participants and the broader community.

In conclusion, participatory museum projects with forced migrants have the potential to be powerful tools for promoting cultural understanding and empathy. By taking a collaborative and inclusive approach, museums can create meaningful and impactful experiences for participants and contribute to the broader cultural dialogue. However, it is important to approach these projects with sensitivity and awareness of the potential challenges and to work to address them in order to ensure their long-term success.

Dimension: 23 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783837664119