Impact of the Botkyrka Project on Gender Equality and Youth Participation : A Capability Approach Perspective on #UrbanGirlsMovement

Abstract: The #UrbanGirlsMovement Pilot Project in Botkyrka was aimed at implementing feminist urban planning at local level, in order to develop innovative solution to improve socio-economically vulnerable urban areas. By laying its foundation on feminist urban planning practices, co-creation and youth participation, this case study aims at examining the implementation and potential impacts of the Botkyrka Pilot Project and how it could have potentially influenced a transformation in the practices of institutions towards more inclusive urban planning. Moreover, benefits and shortcomings were analyzed through the lenses of the Capability Approach, which is a multidimensional framework that prioritizes a person’s capabilities as opposed to the means of living. The results reveal the need for enhancing the gender perspective in urban planning, give marginalized groups a platform to make their voices heard, and confirmed the importance of youth and youth participation towards creating a better urban future. It was concluded that the process may lead to a ripple effect, potentially leading to a long lasting impact on both Botkyrka and surrounding municipalities, successfully bridging the gap between professionals and locals. However, many obstacles were identified that could prevent the project from having a positive effect, such as institutional resistance, public sector economy, and power imbalance.