Rethinking Comfort Zones: Unveiling Secularism’s Echo in Public Participation Strategies to Shape the Pathway to a Just Transition

This research contends that transcending the secular/religious binary is crucial for creating inclusive frameworks and suggests moving beyond these divisions in multi-sectoral network formation. Bridging the gap between climate change discourse and religious studies, the study offers a nuanced understanding of secularism's impact and the potential role of religion in shaping public participation. Drawing on empirical evidence from the Municipality of Groningen, the goal is to contribute to climate change governance discussions, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and multidimensional approach. The research aims to provide clear policy recommendations for establishing inclusive frameworks in the pursuit of just climate futures.