Transnational resistance networks: New prospects for democratic mobilisation? The Lyon-Turin rail project and the No TAV movement

The tendency to utilize transnational organizations (TNO), with the tacit support of transnational institutions such as the European Union, to realize mega projects affecting local populations and territories distant from decision-making boardrooms, may result in increasing democratic alienation between those who are charged with implementing these projects and local citizens. This chapter presents Stage 2 of a study to examine democratic participation and communicative action between a transnational organization, governing bodies, and the citizens affected by a high-speed rail project in Susa Valley, Italy. Findings related to potential democratic alienation between citizens and decision-makers are presented. Societal factors which contribute to this alienation, such as a communication deficit, are considered, as well as the strategies adopted to counter this participatory gap - including a reliance on electronic media for disseminating information and the creation of transnational resistance networks. Results suggest that the emergence of transnational resistance networks such as the Forum Against Unnecessary and Imposed Mega Projects-spearheaded by members of the No TAV social movement, may provide new avenues for democratic participation and citizen engagement.