Spatial citizenship. Understanding the challenges and redefinitions of contemporary social cohesion through the analysis of the geographies of post-migrant contentious politics

Since the late 20th century, the rise of the Internet, social media, and increased global mobility has transformed both the material and conceptual experience of space and belonging. These changes have led to new social tensions and political contradictions, especially affecting individuals excluded from dominant notions of national identity—particularly racialized people and those with migratory backgrounds. These social groups often face two forms of exclusion: formal misrecognition, where political participation is denied due to lack of citizenship, and informal exclusion, where even citizens are marginalized for not fitting imagined national norms. This thesis analyzes these tensions by exploring the socio-spatial processes of belonging within two racialized social movement organizations: Coordinamento Nazionale Nuove Generazioni Italiane (CoNNGI) in Italy and neue deutsche organisationen (ndo) in Germany. It focuses on both national and local levels, specifically examining Next Generation Italy (NGI) and Each One Teach One e.V. (EOTO). The research contributes to four academic fields: post-migration studies, social movement studies, geography, and citizenship studies. First, it highlights emerging claims and new forms of belonging from racialized Europeans. Second, it applies a spatial lens—using Henri Lefebvre’s spatial triad (perceived, conceived, and lived space)—to analyze how these organizations occupy and shape space. Third, it proposes a methodological tool to study socio-spatial conflicts within social movements, capturing both collective dynamics and individual perceptions. Finally, it explores how these organizations reshape the spatial and political boundaries of citizenship in Italy and Germany. Ultimately, this thesis argues that the injustices experienced by racialized communities challenge not only their inclusion but the democratic fabric of society itself. Their practices of belonging contribute to reimagining space and foster new, more inclusive democratic processes.