The Role of Women in Post-Disaster Housing Reconstruction in Iran: An Exploration of Persian-Language Research

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran

2 گروه معماری منظر

3 شهید بهشتی

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The critical role of women in post-disaster housing reconstruction has been well-documented; however, this role is often overlooked in disaster studies, particularly in Iran. This study aims to systematically analyze existing research and examine the role and agency of women in post-disaster housing reconstruction.
Methodology: This study systematically reviewed Persian-language articles, master’s dissertations, and doctoral theses from the field of disaster management and reconstruction at Shahid Beheshti University. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were conducted with key informants. The systematic review process included defining inclusion and exclusion criteria, identifying data sources, employing a search strategy, and coding and analyzing the data.
Findings: The results indicate that while most studies focus on women’s vulnerabilities, participation, and empowerment, the concept of “women’s agency,” which refers to their proactive efforts to address pre- and post-disaster conditions, has received minimal attention. Analysis of instances of women’s agency highlights interventions such as enhancing privacy, creating livelihood-oriented spaces, improving housing safety, and designing emergency spaces.
Conclusion: The findings of this study emphasize the need to integrate the concept of women’s agency into policies and programs for post-disaster housing reconstruction. This approach can contribute to developing more resilience reconstruction processes in disaster management.

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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 01 June 2025
  • Receive Date: 01 October 2024
  • Revise Date: 21 January 2025
  • Accept Date: 19 May 2025