URBAN AREAS AND WOMEN’S SECURITY: SMART-CITY PLANS IN BORDER CITIES (CASE STUDY:WESTERN KURDISTAN, IRAN)

Abstract

Introduction: Today, women are exposed to many security-related problems including rape, gender inequality, and physical-psychological violence. Smart life requires smart people (investing in people and increasing citizens’ awareness, and the aim is to provide safety for women. The present study examined women's public security in the light of sustainable development and selected indicators of smart life in Iran's western border regions.

Methods: This descriptive-analytical study surveyed 3 indicators (urban environment, human and social capital, and smart life) and 11 variables among 103 women mostly aged 20-50 years. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods of correlation of variables and research questions were tested using ANOVA and BETA coefficient.

Results: The analysis of indicators revealed that the average of all indicators, particularly urban environment and public security in the border regions was below average. In this study, the independent variable of urban environment and smart life had the greatest effect on the dependent variable of women's safety. Furthermore, due to the geographical location of border regions, urban living standards (housing, transport, security, education, and health) were low, recreational facilities and parks were not suitable and security in public places and parks was poor for women, and housing quality was unfavorable.

Conclusion: This article attempts to show how urban planning, based on the principles of smart city, can present effective strategies for women's safety in urban environments. In this regard, it is crucial to point out the origins of gender inequality in Iran and worldwide. It is also essential that governments provide grounds for participation and empowerment of women in national and local decision making and through improving the women's quality of life, guarantee their security in private and public areas as half the productive population in communities.