Podcast: The transformation of the local state
03/24/2026Würzburg geography professor Matthias Naumann and Dr. Gala Nettelbladt (Bauhaus University Weimar) have created two episodes for the Urban Political Podcast. Topic: the progressive or authoritarian transformation of local statehood.
Our times are characterised by numerous crises and challenges. Climate change, war, flight and displacement are not only a burden on federal and state governments, but also on the local state. But what does this term actually mean?
The local state encompasses the state institutions that operate in the immediate living environment of citizens: city administrations, city and local councils or public offices.
In addition to global challenges, these bodies often also have to deal with problems such as austerity measures, a lack of staff or dwindling trust in the government apparatus.
Professor Matthias Naumann, Chair of Human Geography at Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU), conducts research into how cities, regions and infrastructures are changing in the face of political upheaval. Together with Dr. Gala Nettelbladt (Bauhaus University Weimar), he has produced two episodes on this topic for the Urban Political Podcast.
Between authoritarian and progressive influences
The two podcast episodes build on each other thematically. The first episode deals with developments of an authoritarian change in local statehood, which significantly reduces the room for manoeuvre for municipalities. In contrast, the second episode presents examples of progressive projects by local governments and administrations in Europe.
Urban researchers from the UK, Austria, Sweden and Hungary contribute their scientific expertise to both episodes. The podcast episodes "104 - Transforming Local Statehood I: Towards Authoritarian Takeover?" and "105 - Transforming Local Statehood II: Progressive Possibilities?" can be listened to free of charge on the podcast website and on the usual platforms.
About the podcast
Founded in 2019, Urban Political - The Podcast on Urban Theory, Research and Activism deals with current topics in urban development and policy. Academics, activists and political decision-makers from all over the world present expertise, impressions and background information.
Contact
Prof Dr Matthias Naumann, Chair of Human Geography, Tel: +49 931 31-83237, e-mail: matthias.naumann@uni-wuerzburg.de
