Ease of being women in public spaces

Increasing women’s participation in the labour force is connected to increasing their presence in public spaces. And that is connected to making public spaces more accessible, safe and agreeable. Feeling unsafe outdoors isn’t confined to the developing world. A 2023 ‘Transport for New South Wales‘ survey report in Australia found 59% surveyed women feeling unsafe walking after dark, compared to 31% men. Something as ‘innocuous’ as the lack of streetlights can make a difference between discomfort and comfort of ‘stepping out’. Such underrated concerns affect women in developing countries like India.

GoI has set up a taskforce headed by the labour secretary to consider options, including a flexi work arrangement framework for women. While welcome, this misses the crux of the matter – making conditions in public spaces ameliorative, and not just tweak schedules to limit women from venturing out. In the workplace, when it comes to promotion, assignments and continued participation, women should not be singled out for being women requiring ‘special treatment’. Flexible work arrangements, improved public transport and mobility options, access to services – from clean toilets, affordable food, to medical services – can make it easier for women to be very much part of public life, work included. The positive correlation of women and good work conditions that start from the moment one steps out of one’s house will help better any ‘ease of being a woman in public spaces’ index.

Safe public spaces and mobility options are real-world issues that lead up to better standards of living and working for women. One judges a society/city by the number of women who freely are visible in public spaces. Workplaces are part of that comfort level.