Managing Public Spaces to Ensure Safety in Women's Use of Services and Other Vulnerable Groups. Case Study: Providing Opportunities for Women and Other Vulnerable Groups to Participate in Managing Public Spaces to Ensure Safety in Udon Thani Municipality

Abstract

               This research aims to (1) study the collaboration between the Udon Thani Municipality and women, children, the elderly, and vulnerable groups in managing public space safety from 2012 to 2023, and (2) investigate the development of this collaboration. This qualitative study involves in-depth interviews with 40 individuals from local government, the private sector, and community organizations involved in public space management.

               The findings reveal that, over the past five years, the Udon Thani Municipality has enhanced the safety of public spaces for women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities through several measures: (1) implementing urban development policies focused on safety, (2) repairing and improving roads and sidewalks, (3) installing lighting and cameras, (4) promoting community participation via local and community plans, and (5) incorporating safety measures into ordinances, with participation facilitated through community radio, meetings, telephones, letters, and community councils. Additionally, there has been an expansion into online channels. For future participation, the municipality should consider increasing travel allowances and compensation, segregating participants in meetings, educating about the benefits of participation, allowing disabled individuals to serve on committees, and managing special group activities and online meetings.