Barbara Freiberga: The Real Social Network Is in Your Backyard
Barbara Freiberga argues that true community and crisis support come not from social media but from daily interactions with neighbors and active participation in local life. She emphasizes that strong communities are vital for societal resilience.
In a society that is becoming faster and more individualized, the basic human need for belonging has not disappeared, according to Barbara Freiberga. She points out that residents increasingly seek ways to interact with neighbors and improve their neighborhoods. For example, replacing a bench in a children's playground might seem insignificant on a national scale, but it is very important for new parents in that specific area.
Freiberga emphasizes that community is one of the fundamental human values and a pillar of societal sustainability. She notes that in recent years, municipalities have become larger and more centralized, increasing the distance between residents and decision-makers. Therefore, places where people can meet, exchange information, and express their needs are becoming more important. The neighborhood becomes a platform where residents can advocate for what matters to them and foster closer cooperation with the municipality.
The strength of a community can be assessed by three questions: whether people feel a sense of belonging, whether there is active information exchange, and whether trust and willingness to help exist. Freiberga gives an example: if a cat goes missing in the neighborhood, residents share information and help search. Such communities can mobilize more effectively during crises.
She highlights the “Safe Communities” program, which aims to strengthen geographically based communities by fostering mutual relationships, trust, and knowledge. Freiberga points to Bebrene, where people know each other by name — a real social network that works better in times of crisis than a large number of friends on Facebook.
In conclusion, Freiberga notes that community and belonging are not just a trend but a crucial prerequisite for a society with greater mutual trust, cooperation, and readiness to support. Strong communities promote participation, strengthen social ties, and increase society's ability to overcome crises.
