A sociological analysis of knowledge coproduction processes in support of Italian local welfare

This chapter provides a sociological analysis of the implications of co-production in service design within the Italian local welfare system. It emphasises the pivotal role of knowledge co-production in shaping public action. This analysis draws on Ostrom's research into the potential and ambivalence of polycentric governance and co-production in promoting inclusive decision-making processes and the production of common goods. The analysis is informed by a case study of youth policy design in northern Italy, involving public institutions, third sector organisations and young citizens. In this instance, collaborative mapping played a pivotal role in engaging young people in the generation of localised knowledge and influencing the decision-making process. In summary, following Ostrom, the effectiveness of knowledge co-production in supporting public action and the governance of public goods depends on the quality of institutions and their ability to integrate diverse knowledge and develop ecological rationality to effect change. Otherwise, practices risk remaining episodic.