Gendering Urban Theory: Rethinking Urban Public Space and Women’s Empowerment

Abstract

Public spaces, as vibrant arenas of social interaction, have the potential to challenge gender inequalities and promote women’s empowerment, a core theme of this book. Chapter 2 explores the theoretical basis of how urban public spaces, as socio-spatial phenomena, are shaped by and shape gendered dynamics. It offers critical insights into their ability to redefine women’s roles in urban life. It begins by defining urban spaces as multi-layered socio-spatial constructs, drawing on theorists such as Henri Lefebvre to view them not as mere physical constructs, but as dynamic arenas for social action that are collectively produced and imbued with cultural meaning. Based on this broad understanding, the focus narrows to urban public spaces, which are presented as the heartbeat of urban life, crucial for fostering social cohesion and community engagement. The discussion then turns to the gendered nature of these important spaces. Drawing on feminist urban studies, the chapter explores how spatial practices perpetuate inequality, addressing the persistent barriers that limit women’s full participation in urban life, such as economic exclusion, political marginalisation, and gender-based violence. Building on this, the chapter examines the role of public spaces in managing cultural diversity. Through the integration of intersectional and intercultural approaches, the chapter contrasts various policy models, arguing that carefully designed public spaces are vital for bridging social divides and fostering genuine inclusion. Finally, it explores how women are challenging these restrictions by asserting their ‘right to the city’, viewing the appropriation of public spaces as a vital means of empowerment and spatial justice. Through this progressive exploration of the nature of space itself and its role in gender dynamics and cultural inclusion, the chapter prepares the ground for subsequent empirical analyses. © 2025 The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.