Kick-off workshop "The Future of Zurich's Cemeteries"

Review of the "Kick-off Workshop Future of Zurich Cemeteries"

How are Zurich's cemeteries perceived today and how should they develop? Around 50 representatives of various stakeholder groups discussed this at the kick-off workshop "Future of Zurich Cemeteries" on 19 September.

Representatives from different areas who have points of contact with cemeteries and their future development were invited. Participants included neighbourhood associations, religious communities, retirement and care facilities, the Open Youth Work Zurich (OJA), nature conservation and monument preservation. The aim was to include as broad a spectrum of perspectives as possible.

After a welcome and a short input from Mayor Raphael Golta and the project management, the participants were given an insight into the project and the previous considerations on the future of Zurich's cemeteries.

Afterwards, their perspectives were in demand: In changing table groups, the participants discussed three central questions:

• How do we perceive Zurich's cemeteries today?

• How do we imagine Zurich's cemeteries in 2040?

• What do we give the city as the most important recommendations for the further development of the strategy?

The discussions were committed, constructive and characterised by a wide range of perspectives.

Diverse perspectives for further development

The discussions showed different ideas about what makes Zurich's cemeteries special today and what qualities are important for their future. The perspectives, needs and recommendations introduced will now be incorporated into the further development of the "Future of Zurich Cemeteries" strategy.

If you would like to find out more about what was discussed at the tables, you can find the results of the kick-off workshop attached below.

Now it's up to you

participation is not over with the kick-off workshop. In the next step, the entire population of Zurich is invited to contribute their perspective.

From 26 October, you can participate online and tell us what is important to you for the future of Zurich's cemeteries.

Would you prefer to join the discussion directly on site? Cemetery walks will take place at the Nordheim, Witikon and Sihlfeld cemeteries, followed by neighbourhood discussions.

The dates and the possibility to register can be found at "Events".

We look forward to your perspective and inputs and further dialogue about the future of Zurich's cemeteries!