VIRTUAL London.

Abstract

Gender inequality remains to be a serious issue in many cities. Despite efforts to narrow the gender gap, gender-based differences apparent in urban settings continue to endanger the well-being and the overall sustainability of communities. To address this issue, gender equality and sustainable cities and communities became two primary goals on the agenda of sustainable development. Building on these goals, this study looks at social cohesion as an essential dimension of community sustainability. Particularly it explores the different experiences from a gender perspective. This study utilises a questionnaire tool to explore residents’ experiences in two inner-city neighbourhoods in Istanbul. The findings are divided into two dimensions of social cohesion; social networking and participation. First, regarding social networking, men had broader networks within the neighbourhood than women. Men also found it comparatively easier to make new friends than women. Second, regarding participation, women reported lower overall participation levels than their male counterparts. Despite gender differences in social networking and participation, some aspects of social cohesion remained independent of gender. Participation in social gatherings and the exchange of help and support between neighbours were qualities that were not affected by gender. Recognising the different social dynamics of different genders would allow cities better manage complexity and promote harmonious urban life and pave the way for creating more inclusive societies and sustainable urban environments.