Document Type : Research Paper
Author
Assistant Professor, Faculty of Art and Architecture, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran
Abstract
This research aims to explain the mechanisms of women's participation in urban governance and its role in shaping the cultural architecture of the city, focusing on the cities of Mazandaran province. Given the exploratory nature of the subject and the lack of empirical studies in this area, the present study uses a qualitative approach and data-driven theory with a Glaserian bias and based on field data. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, participatory observation, and review of relevant documents. Participants included 12 female cultural and social activists and 8 managers and experts in the fields of urban planning and architecture, who were selected using theoretical sampling. Data analysis was conducted simultaneously with data collection and through a data-driven coding process (including extracting primary concepts, continuous comparison, and forming analytical categories). The results show that women's participation in urban governance plays a significant role in shaping the cultural architecture of the city through strengthening local social networks, representing cultural values and identity, increasing the sense of social belonging, and informal influence in urban decision-making processes. Based on the extracted categories, an analytical framework is presented to understand the link between women's participatory governance and the cultural architecture of the city, which can be a basis for urban policymaking and planning with a justice-oriented and participatory approach in the field of architecture and urban development.
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