Feminist Smart Cities

Engagement Method
Design
Social Engagement
Action Area
Community
Mobility
Strategic Priority
Achieving Racial Justice

Since 2019, mass surveillance efforts for urban women’s safety have become popular in India, with its government backing the world’s largest system of facial recognition CCTVs. However, such “safety” measures can be counterproductive, curtail women’s freedoms in public urban spaces, and further oppress already marginalized communities. Our project investigates how perceptions of safety are built into the implementation of smart cities in India. We will collaborate with marginalized communities to redefine public safety through a co-designed educational tool.

Led by Bianchi Dy (MCP '25)

Geography: Cities in India

Engagement Method
Design
Social Engagement
Action Area
Community
Mobility