CSW69: Gender-responsive Infrastructure

Historically, cities have been designed for men, by men, leading to infrastructure that neglects the distinct needs of women. Gender inequalities are built into the fabric of the city from dark streets, overcrowded or inadequate public transport, and poorly connected neighbourhoods. In turn, this creates unsafe, inefficient spaces for women and girls. 

As urban populations grow, infrastructure must evolve to be more inclusive and meet the diverse needs of all residents, particularly women, girls, and marginalized groups. 

Gender-responsive infrastructure, can transform cities into safer, more inclusive spaces that enable women to thrive.

This side event co-organised by UNOPS and Cities Alliance will explore how integrating women's needs into urban planning and infrastructure projects can foster safer, more inclusive, and climate-resilience cities, especially in the context of disaster recovery and post-crisis rebuilding. 

The event hopes to increase the awareness of transformative role of gender-responsive infrastructure; provide clear and actionable guidance to stakeholders on designing, funding, and implementing gender-inclusive solutions; and strengthen partnerships between key stakeholders. 

Case studies, including the Cities4Women programme in Nepal and the Women and Sustainable Cities project in Mauritania, will highlight the transformative potential of gender-sensitive infrastructure. The session will also discuss the importance of gender-disaggregated data, and participatory design processes to achieving sustainable and equitable urban development.

Key discussion points:

• How can governments, civil society, and the private sector work together to finance and expand gender-responsive infrastructure?
• What tools and strategies effectively engage women and marginalized communities in urban planning?
• What is the impact of gender-responsive infrastructure on climate resilience and post-disaster recovery?

Speakers

• Raquel Coello-Cremades, Policy Advisor Macroeconomics, Global Lead on Care, UN Women
• Carola Gunnarsson, Councillor of Sala, UCLG Special Envoy for Freedom, Solidarity and Fighting Violence against Local Political Leaders
• Giulia Maci, Senior Urban Specialist, Cities Alliance
• Rohey Malick Lowe, Mayor of Banjul, President of REFELA
• Giselle Petraglia Romano, Director of FLOR Foundation
• Victoria Stanley, Senior Land Administration Specialist, World Bank

Moderator: Edith Muluhya, Gender, Diversity, and Social Inclusion Advisor, UNOPS

Register