Participatory Urban Improvement and Gender. Lessons from Jordan Refugee Camps

Abstract The objective of this paper is to investigate the successes and challenges of participatory planning of three urban improvement projects. The paper uses a case study approach with mixed methods of interviews and documents to investigate how women were included and whether the strategies used succeeded in overcoming gender inequalities in the preparation of the master plans and action plans, thus achieving benefits for both men and women in the camps. The results indicate that using of mixed gender inclusion strategies support gender equity, but significant changes cannot take place depending on context. Such projects should focus on the sustainability of the change even if incremental.