From the conception of urban planning, until recent years, the presence of women in public spaces has been somewhat neglected. From circulation patterns to land zoning, the design of First World cities has pushed women further away from spatial equality. As women have been gaining a higher position in the labour market, new habits and needs have emerged; yet, no vast restructuring of urban policies has followed.

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Planners have yet to recognise how participatory urban planning has a substantial positive impact on female wellbeing and safety by giving all women a way in larger public discussions.