The Social Cartography Tool

"Empowering Community Engagement and Insight through Participatory Mapping of Social and Territorial Dynamics"

Objective

The Social Cartography Tool (SCT) is a participatory mapping activity that provides information on a specific area's territory and social dynamics by utilizing residents' unique perspectives. It aims to assist operations by geolocating community practices, access barriers, conflicts, projects, and social networks. The SCT is adaptable to any setting, promotes community engagement, and can be shared with community members for empowerment and local negotiations.

Methodology

The Social Cartography Tool utilizes satellite imagery and collective territory mapping workshops, with a fully developed protocol.

Examples of past applications

Settlement of migrants in Rustenbug (South Africa)
Territories of Maras gangs (San Salvador, El Salvador)
Territorial dynamics and invisible borders (Buenaventura, Colombia)
Territorial and social dynamics (Ciudad Jardin, Mexico).

Timeframe

Terms of Reference + Desktop research + Academic networking = 1 month
Fieldwork: 2-3 weeks
Analytical and operational report: 1 month

Total: 3 months