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Abstract
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Walking is an essential mode of mobility that enhances both physical and mental health and is a vital part of urban life. However, certain groups, particularly women, face obstacles in this regard. Despite the topic's significance, there is a scarcity of studies on women's walking in Middle Eastern countries. This paper aims to address this gap by identifying the factors that affect women's walking in Shiraz, Iran.
To collect data, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 73 women living in Shiraz, and the data were analyzed using reflective thematic analysis.
Six themes—health, socio-cultural, environmental, safety and security, weather, and functional—were identified. According to women, issues such as street harassment, unsafe flooring, hot weather, and unsuitable furniture are among the most serious barriers to walking in urban spaces. Additionally, women emphasized concerns like religious beliefs and family norms, which create invisible boundaries to their active presence in urban areas.
This study demonstrates that promoting walkability for women necessitates attention to the social, cultural, and symbolic aspects of urban spaces, in addition to their physical structure. By incorporating these factors into planning, urban planners can create strategies that improve women's walking experiences and sense of belonging in cities.
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