Validated Expert info
Expert can perform the Lead expert role and Ad hoc expertise missions at network and programme level in relation to:
1. The design and delivery of (transnational) exchange and learning activities
2. Thematic expertise:
[Equality, diversity and inclusion; Strategic urban planning]
3. Methods and tools for integrated and participatory approaches:
> Integrated and participatory design of strategies
> Monitoring and evaluation for effective implementation
Summary
Dr. Edna Peza-Ramirez is a specialized URBACT Validated Lead and Ad-hoc Expert focusing on the critical intersection of Public Space Quality, Security (beyond crime), and Social Inclusion. With a background in architecture and urbanism, she possesses a unique ability to address the feelings of insecurity that hinder public life, particularly for vulnerable populations (e.g., women, children, immigrants). Dr. Peza-Ramirez excels at guiding cities to adopt a humane and inclusive lens for urban planning, ensuring that the Integrated Action Plans address the complex, perceptual, and systemic barriers to fully accessible public spaces.
Thematic expertise
| Key Focus Area | Description of expertise |
| Safe and Inclusive Public Spaces | Expertise in defining security beyond crime statistics, addressing factors like microaggressions, incivilities, and environmental characteristics that influence perceptions of insecurity. Specialist knowledge in promoting a humane approach to public space—designing spaces that support dignity, psychological comfort, and diverse uses for all populations |
| Socio-Spatial Analysis | Conducting research and analysis on how social representations of places and socio-demographic variables affect mobility and city geography. |
| Citizen participation | Designing and implementing inclusive, deep, and continuous engagement methods to empower local communities and vulnerable groups to co-produce urban security, from ideation to evaluation. |
| Smart City Integration | Experience analyzing how digital tools and data-driven strategies (e.g., citizen-reported data) can be ethically and effectively integrated into urban security planning. |
| Preservation of Architectural Heritage | Integrating the protection and valorization of historical urban elements and public spaces within regeneration projects, ensuring accessibility and social function are prioritized alongside conservation |
URBACT Methodology Implementation
- Integrated Approach: Guiding local authorities to link public space design with social policies and local governance mechanisms to achieve holistic security and inclusion goals.
- Participatory Governance: ability to mobilize and facilitate URBACT Local Groups (ULGs) to engage with sensitive topics, ensuring a deep and authentic level of participation, particularly from vulnerable or underrepresented groups.
- Knowledge Transfer: Adept at translating academic concepts into practical frameworks that are actionable for city makers and practitioners.
URBACT experience
- CITISENSE Innovation Transfer Network (Role: URBACT Ad-hoc Expert): Provided specialized thematic input on public space quality, citizen-centric security, facilitated the SHIp Method Workshop in Liepāja, and mentored ULGs through the development of Action Plans.
- BeSecure-FeelSecure (BSFS) UIA Project (Role: Expert): Collaborated with the city of Piraeus, focusing on improving security in public spaces.
- Publications and training: Author of articles and papers contributing to the URBACT knowledge base on public space, and experience delivering training on socially responsible urban planning at EU-level events.