In the era where cities are the epicenters of human activity and growth, the evolution of urban planning has become imperative for fostering inclusivity and equality. This evolution is not just about altering physical landscapes but also about addressing the deeply rooted social inequities that shape the nowadays urban environments. We’re inviting a distinguished speaker and also researcher named Camille Martinez from Laboratoire RIVES-EVS of University de Lyon to deliver a profound exploration into this collaboration with Geodetic Engineering Department of Universitas Diponegoro to share her scientific based point of views in regards of the design of the cities phenomenon as a potent reflection of social inequalities, particularly those are based on gender inequality perspective. This event is conducted through an engaging podcast at Diponegoro University, Semarang, in purposed to provide an enlightenment towards the often overlooked but also essential things that need to incorporate gender perspectives into urban planning.
This podcast will be precisely addressing such interesting sub-topics such as The Gender Cityscape, Public Spaces and Gender Inequality, Barriers to Gender-Inclusive Urban Planning, Gender-Sensitive Urban Planning, Public Policy Measures in France, and The necessary paths forward undertaking the issue of Gender Inequality Issues in Today’s Urban Planning.
The Gendered Cityscape
In this podcast, Martinez posits that urban environments have historically been designed and have conservatively been conceived with a narrow perspective and also predominantly catering to such an able-bodied, that is quote on quote only exclusive for working male archetype. This male-centric approach is epitomized by Le Corbusier’s Modulor, which is a standard based on the dimensions of an athletic man which inherently marginalized women and other second class groups of people. Martinez articulates that this perspective has resulted in cities that fail to meet the diverse needs of all residents, particularly women. One of the critical points which addressed is the notion that urban spaces are factually not neutral; they are reflective of societal norms and inequalities. This is an evident in the design and functionality of public spaces such as transportation systems and amenities. For instance, the lack of public amenities such as restrooms and adequate lighting in certain areas disproportionately affects women, who may feel unsafe or unwelcome in these spaces.
Public Spaces and Gender Inequality
Public spaces often symbolize and reinforce gender inequalities. In France, for instance, the data showed that only 2% of streets are named after women, highlighting a broader issue of female invisibility in the urban fabric. That example is a true embodiment of elimination of Women itself, while historically, there ar many women who are well known as a revolution maker. Martinez notes that this lack of representation contributes to a sense of illegitimacy and insecurity for women in public spaces, perpetuating a cycle of exclusion and inequality. In the podcast, she highlighted that women’s underrepresentation in decision-making roles within urban planning and architecture, compounded by societal norms and economic pressures, results in environments that do not cater to their needs. This severe systemic exclusion manifests in various ways, from the withdrawal number of women in participating for Urban Planning Decision Making due to inconsideration of contributing perspective from Women themselves to the feelings of discomfort from Women in Public Spaced in France. Martinez explained that many women experience a pervasive sense of insecurity in public areas due to it was exacerbated by urban designs that fail to address their safety and comfort. Elements such as poorly lit pathways, the lack of public toilets, and inadequate sidewalks contribute to their reluctance to linger or fully utilize these spaces.
Moreover, Martinez emphasized the spatial zoning practices, which segregate industrial, commercial, and residential areas, and additional burdens on women, who typically bear the brunt of caregiving responsibilities. This separation often forces women to travel longer distances for work, childcare, and household errands whichare making their daily lives in routine more strenuous and limiting their economic opportunities. In essence, urban planning that fails to integrate gender perspectives not only marginalizes women but also reinforces broader societal inequalities. By addressing these issues, Urban Planning can evolve towards greater inclusivity and equality, also addressing society benefits as a whole.
Barriers to Gender-Inclusive Urban Planning
Several barriers hinder the integration of gender perspectives in urban planning. Women are significantly underrepresented in decision-making roles within this field, which leads to planning decisions that do not adequately consider their needs. Additionally, urban amenities such as public toilets and safe sidewalks are often insufficient, exacerbating the challenges not only women, yet also certain group of men whose work is informal.
She elucidated the manifold challenges that is faced by these group of people with existing public transportation systems, which are frequently designed around certain type of privileged male-centric commuting patterns. These systems typically prioritize peak hours aligning with standard office work schedules, disregarding the varied and flexible travel needs of women who juggle multiple roles and responsibilities throughout the day.
Martinez suggests that adopting inclusive urban policies, that additionally should consider such comprehensive Check And Balance [1]to enhance safety and accessibility in cities. This includes gender-responsive zoning, improved public transportation, and community involvement in planning processes. In the podcast, she also advocates for an improved transformation of public transportation to better serve these diverse needs. She emphasizes the necessitu for frequent, reliable services that cater to a broader range of daily activities, beyond the narrow confines of conventional peak times. It also considered to accommodate non-standard work hours, caregiving responsibilities, and other personal commitments that do not conform just to the typical nine-to-five workday.
European Models of Gender-Sensitive Urban Planning
European cities like Vienna, Berlin, and Barcelona serve as exemplary models of gender-sensitive urban planning. Vienna’s comprehensive guide, “Gender Mainstreaming in Urban Planning and Urban Development,” provides a blueprint for integrating gender perspectives into urban development. These cities have implemented policies and initiatives that address gender disparities, creating more inclusive and functional urban environments.
Public Policy Measures in France
In France, various public policy measures aim to address gender inequalities in urban planning. Participatory research, gender budgeting, and the incorporation of gender criteria in urban redevelopment projects are some of the strategies employed. Lyon, in particular, has taken proactive steps to address these issues through targeted action plans and community engagement, setting a precedent for other cities to follow.
The Necessary Path Forward: Paving the Way for Inclusive Urban Planning
In the quest for more equitable and inclusive cities, integrating gender perspectives into urban planning is not just a matter of fairness; it is a crucial step towards creating urban environments that are functional, inclusive, and sustainable for all residents. Camille Martinez eloquently argues that addressing gender disparities in urban design can lead to transformative changes in our cities, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of their inhabitants.
Martinez’s insights have shed light on the often-overlooked biases inherent in urban planning processes. She emphasized that traditional urban design frequently neglected the unique experiences and requirements of women and other certain group of people, resulting in cities that do not fully accommodate their daily lives and needs. This oversight manifests in various ways, from inadequate public transportation options to unsafe public spaces and insufficient amenities.
This article is a testament to the transformative potential of gender-sensitive urban planning. It underscores the importance of addressing gender disparities in urban design and calls for a collective effort to create cities that are truly inclusive for all. By integrating gender perspectives into urban planning, we can pave the way for a more equitable, functional, and sustainable urban future.
(refta)
[1] Check And Balance: A law principle which is the separation of power to avoid one entity wielding too much power or privilege.
