Territorial Quality of Life (TQoL) is “the capability of living beings to survive and flourish in a place, thanks to the economic, social and ecological conditions that support life in that place” (ESPON, 2021). In order to operationalise this concept, ESPON developed a TQoL conceptual map including three dimensions: good life enablers, life survival (“maintenance”) and life flourishing. These dimensions are crossed with three spheres – personal, socio-economic and ecological – giving a matrix of QoL measurement domains and sub-domains. The three vertical dimensions of the measurement scheme can also be grouped in two pillars: the Quality of Life Enablers (first dimension) and the Quality of Life Outcomes (the other two dimensions).

The conceptual map for measuring QoL can be used across different territorial levels, and the indicators used are based on data availability for each context. Scientific validity is a first criterion to apply to the selection of the indicators. At the same time, this process needs to be legitimated through a participatory process that engages policymakers, stakeholders, and citizens to create ownership. Only such a comprehensive approach can ensure both scientific relevance and legitimacy of the selected indicators, enhancing the acceptance of QoL measurement and easing its implementation and use in different policies.

With the knowledge that the assessment of the QoL will become more important at all scales of planning, this online workshop will bring together policymakers, planning practitioners, and whomever is interested to hear and discuss the results of the ESPON study on measuring Quality of Life in Europe at sub-national level, which includes 10 case studies. This event is based on working paper: “Is our life good enough? Measuring Territorial Quality of Life to support a future for all places and bring Europe closer to citizens”, which suggests a participatory process to ensure that the QoL measurement is legitimated by the citizens, reflecting their life needs and expectations. Eventually, the working paper is also meant to inform and inspire policymakers and stakeholders on how to operationalise and integrate QoL into policy processes at different levels.