Research project "Home - more than just a feeling"

Cohesion in rural regions? - A participatory research project

What is the actual state of social cohesion in rural regions of Bavaria and what ideas do citizens have to strengthen it? - The Nuremberg Institute of Technology Georg Simon Ohm is investigating this in a major research project throughout Bavaria until 2026. The Heimatprojekt is funded by the Bavarian State Ministry of Finance and Home Affairs.
 

What is the Bavarian Homeland Project about?

Social cohesion: this refers to concrete local social interaction, a sense of belonging and issues relating to the common good. The manifestations and framework conditions of social cohesion in rural regions are being analysed in three surveys and four in-depth projects. People from all regions have their say, from villages and small towns, long-time residents and newcomers, old and young. More detailed information can be found on the project website: www.heimatprojekt-bayern.de.

Who can take part - and how?

The citizens of all municipalities that belong to rural areas according to the Bavarian Regional Development Plan (LEP) are invited to take part. Participation in the three surveys is possible online via the project website. For the in-depth projects, the project team will contact various people and organisations throughout Bavaria.

When does it start?

The first survey on specific local social relationships and the second survey on attachment to the place of residence have now been completed. The results of both surveys are available online on the project website. The third survey focusses on community orientation and commitment. Participation is possible from 17 September until 17 October 2025.

Why is it worth taking part?

The research project will develop, systematise and comparatively evaluate findings on the orientation towards the common good in rural regions for citizens and politicians. In this way, social cohesion can be better visualised and further developed. The results will be made available on the project website on an ongoing basis so that all interested parties can form their own judgement. In addition to the results report from the first and second citizen surveys, the results brochures from the first, second and third in-depth projects on the topics of everyday support for senior citizens through neighbourhood help, young people in rural areas and returning to rural areas can already be viewed online.
 

Who is responsible for the project and how can I get in touch?

Project management: Prof. Dr Sabine Fromm, Nuremberg Institute of Technology Georg Simon Ohm
E-mail: heimatprojekt-bayern(at)th-nuernberg.de