Communications in Humanities Research ISSN: 2753-7072
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Research Article

Feminist Urbanism: An International Comparative Study

Grace Weibao PengLéman International School Chengdu*

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

Feminist urbanism is a concept in urban planning that opposes patriarchal principles and focuses on creating spaces that are more accessible for all genders, especially supporting women. However, its implementation diverges between the Global North and South. This paper compares Barcelona, Spain, and Mumbai, India, which adopt state-led and self-driven approaches respectively. Through policy analysis and case study review, this study discusses how each city redefines feminist urbanism in relation to state power, labour, and safety. Findings reveal that Barcelona’s state-led policies risk neoliberal co-optation, while Mumbai’s slum women practice Darwinist, survival-based urbanism. Not only is gender identified as a crucial factor that affects the maintenance of cities, but also the population’s financial status. Although Barcelona and Mumbai have different economic and historical backgrounds, both cities strive to promote and plan for women, emphasising how gender planning can exist regardless of economic ability. This study suggests that feminist urbanism must consider economies, policies, and sociocultural norms to avoid further producing inequality.

Keywords: feminist urbanism; Barcelona; Mumbai; gender planning
Published: November 11, 2025
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2025.HT29455
Volume: CHR Vol.94
pp. 59-67
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