Amsterdam, Netherlands

Power to the People: Activism and Grassroots Organising

In this three week programme, participants will examine bottom-up initiatives ranging from protest movements to self-organised communities as they to disrupt established top-down institutional control, or propose alternatives to it. Examples will be drawn from around the world, with focus on local organisations and movements in Amsterdam's (recent) past and present.

Course leader

Dr. Freek Jannsens

Target group

For current university students (Bachelors) in the arts and social sciences with an interest in urban studies broadly, sociology, anthropology, and social movements over time. Master's students and working professionals are also welcome to apply if they are seeking a theoretical basis.

Course aim

The course starts with a thorough overview of social movement theory and work on collective action, as well as a brief introduction to state formation. Subsequently, we will offer methodological tools to study bottom-up initiatives, after which we will combine the theories and methods to zoom-in on a the range of case studies.

Credits info

6 EC
Upon successful completion of the programme, students who wish to earn credits will receive an official transcript stating the courses taken, credits earned and grades obtained.

Fee info

EUR 1650: Tuition fee. Including lunch on class days, all course materials, excursions and events.
EUR 650: Housing fee (optional).

Scholarships

There are several scholarship opportunities. Please see the course website for more information and scholarship deadlines.