Exploring social acceptability in urban crime prevention: perspectives from six EU cities

Abstract

This study assesses the social acceptability of innovative urban security strategies implemented in six European cities (Riga, Stuttgart, Lisbon, Nice, Turin, and Rotterdam) within the EU-funded IcARUS project during 2024. Using the Nominal Group Technique (NGT), two sessions per city engaged local stakeholders (n = 27), blending technical expertise with the lived experiences of local citizens. This participatory approach fostered in-depth discussions, prioritisation of ideas, and a deeper understanding of the social benefits and challenges shaping the acceptability of each tool. Key benefits included strengthened trust between communities and public institutions, enhanced safety perceptions, and greater civic engagement. However, challenges such as resource constraints, political instability, and communication gaps threatened long-term sustainability. By integrating insights from diverse contexts, this research highlights the importance of co-designed crime prevention solutions. This research offers a clear roadmap for fostering trust, inclusion, and resilience in urban security, guiding future initiatives toward sustainable and socially accepted outcomes.