Designing Safe, Friendly Spots for Migrant Women and Teens in Dutch Neighborhoods

The study took place in four Dutch towns between March 2024 and June 2025. Researchers talked to 97 people: 29 staff members, 44 women from non‑Western backgrounds, and 24 teenage girls aged 12 to 18.

They said they want places that are clean, close to home, and feel welcoming. They look for benches, safe walkways, green spots, and designs that respect gender differences. Activities they enjoy include cooking together, learning new languages, hanging out informally, and playing sports. They prefer spots that feel familiar, culturally aware, and friendly for kids.

Getting there is hard because messages are unclear, language gaps exist, childcare is missing, and many feel unsafe. Neighbourhood workers help by reaching out, running sessions, and building confidence.

When spaces feel owned, trusted, and safe, women and girls join more often. The results fit a four‑part model: how the place looks, how it’s used, how it’s run, and how people see it.