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From Social Cohesion to Community Well-Being: Resident Perceptions of the BAN BIBA BARIO Initiatives in Aruba
de Cuba, Claudia
de Cuba, Claudia
Promotor / Advisor
Keyword
Social Cohesion
Community Well-being
BAN BIBA BARIO
Neighborhood
Community Well-being
BAN BIBA BARIO
Neighborhood
Location research
Aruba
Date
2025-08-22
License
Attribution 4.0 International
Publisher
University of Aruba
Language
en
ISSN
ISBN
Citations
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Abstract
This study explores how residents and project leaders perceive the impact of the BAN BIBA BARIO (BBB) program on enhancing social cohesion and community well-being in Aruba. The BBB program, coordinated by CEDE Aruba, funds neighborhood-based projects that aim to strengthen civic participation and improve social cohesion. Adopting a qualitative case study design, twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted across seven projects in four districts.
Data were analyzed thematically to identify recurring patterns and perspectives. Findings indicate that the BBB initiatives fostered increased social interaction, strengthened residents’ sense of belonging, and encouraged participation in neighborhood life. These outcomes highlight the role of small-scale, community-driven projects in rebuilding trust and connectedness.
However, concerns emerged around sustainability, including reliance on a few active leaders, volunteer fatigue, and limited funding mechanisms. While the initiatives enhanced community well-being through revitalized public spaces and collective engagement, their long-term impact depends on continued support, leadership development, and institutional collaboration. The study contributes to academic discussions on community-led development in Small Island Developing
States and offers practical recommendations for designing inclusive, sustainable, and locally relevant neighborhood initiatives.
Citation
De Cuba, C. (2025, August 22). From Social Cohesion to Community Well-Being: Resident Perceptions of the BAN BIBA BARIO Initiatives in Aruba. [Bachelor thesis, University of Aruba].