Urban Girls Movement
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | GLOBAL UTMANING |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 2 100 000 |
| Project duration | December 2017 - November 2019 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Social innovation - Challenge-driven innovation |
| Call | Social innovation - Challenge-driven innovation 2017 |
Important results from the project
Knowledge gaps in theory and practice in feminist urban development were addressed. The results illustrate ways to break down patriarchal structures in the city. The initiative contributed to development of new methods for urban development that promote sustainable local public spaces. The girls got an official voice in the planning for more equal urban spaces. They showed knowledge of social and ecological sustainability based on everyday experiences and observations. The process created new ways of thinking and the feeling of empowerment was frequent in the girls´ stories.
Expected long term effects
The methods and tools proved to be efficient to make urban planning more inclusive. The girls were constantly looking for ways to combine ecological well-being with how different groups can enjoy the same space. Knowledge is a valuable capacity-building factor for municipal planning to build relationships with its inhabitants. These factors are used to combat legitimacy issues, handling of friction in processes and finding paths towards increased sustainability. The target group´s design proposals and recommendations were handed over to UN, government, region and municipality.
Approach and implementation
The project was carried out through 6 innovation labs, exhibition, test and final conference. The method is based on 9 steps that are identified as vital for a successful planning process; context, challenges, opportunities, solutions, input, plans, recommendations, sharing and evaluation. Multi-stakeholder co-operation; girls, civil society, business, property owners, and the public sector created a holistic picture of challenges and opportunities. It provided conditions for designing plans that meet the needs of the girls, and create legitimacy for their realization.