An Application Analysis for Gender Equality in Urban Policies in the COVID-19 Crisis: The Case of Izmir

Whilst the COVID-19 epidemic, whose effects still continue to be experienced, takes a wide place on the agenda of countries and cities, the social, economic, and political effects of the crisis have been deepening. Especially in terms of women and children who have moved further away from the public area with the epidemic causing poverty, violence, deprivation, etc. The deficit is growing even more. On the other hand, public policies need to show their reflexes rapidly and show their power to prevent, eliminate, and remedy any kind of deficit and negativity. In this context, the role and responsibility of local governments is increasing day by day. On the basis of sustainable development, it is important for local governments to prefer urban policies based on gender equality. In this study, the third largest city in Turkey, in crisis management during COVID-19, policies, and practices on behalf of women in Izmir Metropolitan Municipality, is analysed by gender equality perspective. The research question is investigating the policies and recommendations of women’s organisations and leading institutions and individuals on gender equality in İzmir, on crisis management in the city. This work is carried out with a feminist research approach and analysed using qualitative analysis techniques. In-depth interviews were held with bureaucrats and political decision makers, who are involved in the decision-making mechanisms of the municipality, leading women in the city and NGO representative women who are actively involved in these processes. A semi-structured question form was used during the interviews.