International women's day - 8 March
Gendered Public Spaces and Women's Mobility
India ranks poorly in the Women, Peace, and Security Index (128 among 177 countries), reflecting the need for change.
Women face significant barriers in public spaces, often restricting their freedom of movement.
Public spaces are gendered, with many women limited to the private/domestic sphere, impacting their autonomy and access to vital services.
Safety Concerns and Gendered Violence
Women face violence not only in public spaces but also within their homes, challenging the idea of "safe" spaces.
Women are more likely to use public spaces for work-related purposes, not leisure, highlighting restrictions on their freedom.
Women’s safety in public spaces remains a major concern, with societal views often blaming victims instead of addressing perpetrators.
The Need for Reclaiming Public Spaces
Women should be able to occupy public spaces freely, without fear or the need to conform to a male gaze.
Reclaiming public spaces means women should feel comfortable using them for both necessity and leisure, fostering equality.
Normalizing women’s presence in public spaces for fun or relaxation is crucial to breaking societal restrictions.
Policy Changes for Safer Public Spaces
The government must improve public space design—better lighting, accessible toilets, and recreational areas for women.
Stronger enforcement of laws against gender-based violence is essential, alongside efforts to tackle the low conviction rates for offenders.
Society must stop placing the burden of safety on women and instead focus on creating secure, inclusive environments where women can move freely.
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