“DiverCity: Empowering Youth for Gender Equality in Urban Settings” is a groundbreaking manual that advocates for inclusive urban planning through collaborative city-building and a robust gender perspective. It challenges traditional paradigms of urban development by placing community engagement, social inclusion, and participatory decision-making at its core. Highlighting initiatives across Spain, Greece, Germany, and Belgium, the manual showcases how young people are pivotal in shaping urban policies and projects, amplifying their voices and contributions.
Taking a multidisciplinary approach, “DiverCity” integrates insights from sociology, ecology, economics, and more to reimagine cities as dynamic, adaptive ecosystems shaped by diverse social, economic, and environmental factors. It emphasizes the importance of cooperation among stakeholders—from grassroots movements to civic networks—to democratize urban planning and foster inclusive, resilient urban environments.
A central focus of the manual is gender mainstreaming in urban and rural planning. It critiques traditional urban designs influenced by male perspectives, addressing how these have perpetuated safety concerns and unequal access to public resources for women and marginalized groups. By advocating for gender-sensitive policies and inclusive decision-making processes, “DiverCity” aims to challenge existing power dynamics and promote gender equality in urban development.
Furthermore, “DiverCity” explores intersectionality, recognizing how gender intersects with age, ability, ethnicity, and socio-economic status to shape urban experiences. It offers practical tools and case studies to empower planners, policymakers, and community leaders to create cities that are not only more inclusive and equitable but also resilient and responsive to the diverse needs and aspirations of all residents. Ultimately, the manual serves as a guide for building cities that prioritize social justice, sustainability, and the well-being of future generations.