Les Dialecteurs reprennent ici le billet de UN-Habitat, le Programme des Nations Unies pour les établissements, humains publié sur LinkedIn en février 2025 concernant le livre « What if Women Designed the City », du Dr May East.

Most cities today aren’t « neutral » – they were designed by men, for men – prioritizing cars, industrial growth, and efficiency. But what if women were in charge of urban planning?

Recent studies and books* show that the result would be safer, more walkable, and community-focused cities built for everyone.

Did you know that women are 50% more likely to rely on public transportation, yet most transit systems weren’t built with them in mind?

We’d likely see safer, greener, and more inclusive spaces – designed to support everyday life, not just the daily commute.

Here’s how things might change with a woman-led urban design approach:

1. Safer Public Spaces & Walkability

  • Well-lit streets, parks, and transit stops to reduce safety concerns.
  • More mixed-use, safer developments to ensure there are always “eyes on the street.”
  • Pedestrian-friendly design with wider sidewalks and safer crosswalks.

2. Better Public Transport & Accessibility

  • More reliable, affordable, and flexible transit options.
  • Safer bus and train stations with better lighting and emergency features.
  • More public toilets – because access to toilets shouldn’t be a luxury.

3. Family-Friendly & Inclusive Spaces

  • More childcare facilities near workplaces and transit hubs.
  • Dedicated breastfeeding rooms and baby-changing stations in public areas.
  • Safer, better-maintained parks and playgrounds for families.

4. Affordable & Thoughtful Housing

  • More secure, community-oriented housing for women, single parents, and vulnerable populations.
  • Designs that prioritize safety – secure entrances, better lighting, and communal living spaces.

5. Sustainable & Green Infrastructure

  • Less car dependency, with better cycling and walking infrastructure.
  • More green spaces, urban gardens, and climate-conscious planning.
  • Support for eco-friendly policies – because cities should work with the environment, not against it.

6. More Women in Urban Planning

  • Representation matters: More female-led city planning teams would bring diverse perspectives to the table.
  • Policies that support work-life balance, like flexible workspaces and community-led initiatives.

A city designed by women isn’t just for women – it’s for everyone.

A city built with safety, accessibility, and sustainability in mind benefits men, children, the elderly, and marginalized communities too.

Imagine a world where cities truly prioritize people over cars, where public spaces feel welcoming instead of intimidating, and where daily life is made easier – not harder.

Sources: