Engagement Needs Space

Berlin is full of empty spaces—and full of initiatives that can’t find a place to do their work. This is exactly where engagiertes.berlin comes in. At re:publica 2025, we discussed with community activists, cultural professionals, space providers, and urban developers : How can digital solutions help make spaces more accessible for community engagement?

The central question was: What does a platform need to ensure that spaces are not only visible but also usable? It became clear that trust, transparency, and good communication are just as important as database entries.

Spaces are not neutral—they reflect the values of the people who use them. That’s why many initiatives aren’t just looking for any space, but one that fits their work . For both sides—those seeking a space and those offering one—two key questions take center stage:

• Who is my counterpart?
• How can I be sure that my trust won’t be betrayed?

These questions accompany the entire process of using a space: from the search, through the matching process, to the actual use of the space.

A digital platform alone cannot solve Berlin’s space shortage. Spaces are created through relationships, communication, and trust . However, engagiert.berlin can help foster and facilitate these relationships. The platform serves as a curated directory of spaces —no login required, no data storage, but with a clear structure and helpful filter functions.

Despite the intentionally simple setup that requires no login, many ideas were developed on how to make the tool more human, trustworthy, and helpful:

1. Spaces Need Stories
   Personal quotes, images, and testimonials from space providers or users create a sense of connection and provide guidance.
2. Feedback improves quality
   An internal feedback form allows for input on how the platform is being used.
   An anonymous rating system could build trust—with clear rules to prevent abuse.
3. Trust Has Its Signs
   A “Community-Tested” tag identifies spaces that have already been used and positively rated—a visible sign of quality.
4. Rules provide clarity
   A Code of Conduct and accompanying articles or checklists help clarify expectations and reduce uncertainty.

The discussion showed that the potential extends far beyond a simple list. In the long term, engagiert.berlin could develop a full-fledged space-planning tool —for example, with:

• user profiles and verification
• A booking feature and in-app communication
• Checklists for legal and organizational issues
• Rating systems and community seals of approval

In short: an Airbnb for civic engagement —tailored to Berlin-based initiatives.

In several small groups, specific requirements for effective space allocation were identified:

Building trust:

• A Code of Conduct that everyone signs
• Verifications and personal contacts
• Information on values, target groups, and no-gos

Simplify the process:

• Clearly defined required fields in the contact form
• Legal certainty (insurance, escrow solutions)
• Support from partner services (e.g., cleaning, IT)

Improving communication:

• Presenting legal information in a concise format
• Templates for inquiries
• Internal feedback option after use

Without spaces, engagement remains invisible. But spaces are more than just square meters—they are places for connection, collaboration, and visibility. The workshop showed that a digital structure can make access easier, but only if it builds trust and engages people.

The “Raumtool” from engagiertes.berlin is designed to do just that—it’s accessible, transparent, and developed in collaboration with the community.