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Database research record2025·China (Shanghai)

Gardening governance: CSO-government dynamics in Shanghai's urban renewal

Mengqi Shao, Linjun Xie

Journal of Environmental Policy & Planning

Urban Farm DB summary

This study explored the dynamics of civil society organization (CSO)-government relationships through community gardens as governance spaces in Shanghai. Through empirical case studies of three community garden projects, it revealed how political, practical, and personal spheres shape the evolving dynamics between CSOs and local governments. The research highlighted CSOs' pivotal role in mediating between the state and local communities, but noted that challenges such as power asymmetries persist.