Urban and rural areas both face the challenge of actively shaping social change. In rural areas in particular, it is becoming clear that new forms of cooperation – such as “wild alliances” – are necessary to ensure quality of life, strengthen community and overcome vacancies or infrastructural deficits.

Committed stakeholders from the region came together as part of the “Wild Alliances for Town & Country” City Talks. The aim of the discussions was to share experiences from change processes, make challenges visible and jointly develop solution strategies. The open “storytelling café” format promoted an appreciative discussion and encouraged participants to get actively involved.

Entrepreneurs, cultural workers, municipal representatives and volunteers reported on their projects and initiatives in impulse rounds. Discussions included the importance of network effects for sustainable engagement, the role of appreciation and emotional security and the challenges of institutionalizing alliances. It was particularly emphasized that social change cannot succeed without strong partnerships and flexible structures. Co-creation processes, an active and collaborative working atmosphere, commitment and room for experimentation were identified as key success factors.

The City Talk shows: Wild alliances offer enormous potential to support local change processes. Successful regional development requires courageous cooperation, open meeting spaces and an administration that accompanies rather than slows down. Especially in times of growing uncertainty, such networks are indispensable in order to jointly shape the city and countryside for the future.