Case Studies of Vienna and Cologne: Migrant Kurdish Women’s Experiences of Urban Public Spaces in Austria and Germany

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the case studies of Vienna and Cologne, two prominent European cities with a rich historical heritage and a vibrant multicultural population, respectively. By examining the historical development of these cities, this chapter establishes the foundation for understanding how these evolutions have influenced public space and social structures, particularly from a feminist perspective. This historical perspective is complemented by field studies, conducted through surveys of women in both cities, which provide insights into their daily interactions with urban public spaces, their perceptions of safety, their social engagement, and the opportunities and barriers they face. In this manner, the chapter places the cities’ historical legacies in juxtaposition with their modern social landscapes, thereby demonstrating how these contexts shape women’s experiences in different yet interconnected ways. This comparative approach not only highlights the unique challenges and opportunities in Vienna and Cologne but also offers broader insights into the ways in which governance, culture and urban planning influence gender integration in European cities. By establishing a linkage between urban past and present, this chapter serves to enhance our comprehension of the manner in which public spaces reflect and influence social dynamics, thus providing a foundation for the development of inclusive environments for women. In order to comprehend the contemporary experiences of women in these cities, it is necessary to commence with an examination of their historical and cultural foundations, with Vienna serving as a case in point. © 2025 The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.