BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 17. The creation of
inclusive urban spaces is one of the key issues, the 6th and first
female President of the Republic of Mauritius, Ameenah Gurib-Fakim,
said during the opening of the session titled “Women’s Assembly:
Co-creating Gender-Transformative Strategies” held within the
framework of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in
Baku, Trend
reports.
According to her, gender equality must constantly remain in the
spotlight.
“The daily needs of women and girls must always be taken into
account. In some countries, women and girls cannot use public
transport during evening hours. The creation of inclusive urban
spaces is one of the primary issues. Women’s lived experiences must
be considered in the specific design of cities,” Gurib-Fakim
said.
“Women should be able to move and live in the city without fear.
The creation of inclusive public transport systems and safe spaces
in cities makes a significant contribution to women’s safety,” she
added.
The former president noted that affordable and adequate housing
conditions are also essential for achieving gender equality.
“It is vital to strengthen the role of women in the environment
they live in. It is also important to reinforce steps aimed at
promoting entrepreneurship among women and enhancing their skills.
There is a need to understand the complex urban and regional
environments and their dynamics well. Unfortunately, policymakers
sometimes fail to do this fully. The proper use of the female
workforce in urban governance increases economic growth. This
factor must absolutely be taken into account,” she concluded.
