What's Happening?
UN Women is undertaking a gender-responsive safety and access audit in Port Vila, Vanuatu, as part of the city's reconstruction efforts following a 7.3 magnitude earthquake in December 2024. The audit aims to ensure that the reconstruction of the Port Vila Central
Business District (CBD) incorporates safety, inclusion, and resilience for women and marginalized groups. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to 'build back better' by addressing urban challenges such as congestion and inadequate infrastructure. UN Women is collaborating with the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning to assess the safety and accessibility of public spaces, focusing on how design and management practices affect women and girls differently. The audit will identify risks related to safety and violence in public spaces and propose measures to mitigate these issues.
Why It's Important?
The gender-responsive audit is crucial for ensuring that the reconstruction efforts in Port Vila do not perpetuate existing inequalities or expose women and marginalized groups to further risks. By integrating gender considerations into urban planning, the initiative aims to enhance women's safety, mobility, and economic participation. This approach not only addresses immediate safety concerns but also contributes to long-term social and economic empowerment of women in Vanuatu. The audit's findings will inform future infrastructure projects, ensuring that they are inclusive and responsive to the needs of all community members. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of gender-responsive planning in achieving sustainable and equitable urban development.
What's Next?
Following the audit, UN Women will develop a practical action plan outlining steps to integrate gender-responsive measures into ongoing reconstruction processes. This plan will include recommendations for infrastructure design, construction, and management, with a focus on enhancing safety and accessibility for women and marginalized groups. The findings will be shared with local stakeholders to ensure that they are incorporated into future urban planning efforts. Additionally, UN Women will continue to collaborate with local authorities and community organizations to support the implementation of the audit's recommendations and promote gender equality in urban development.
