In the search for new models of environmental, economic and social sustainability, the urban dimension is the one that offers greater possibilities for experimentation. The cities, in fact, as places of accumulation of environmental and socio-economic problems, are at the forefront in addressing contemporary challenges related to climate change and the exponential trend of population concentration, and can become laboratories for creative and innovative actions oriented to a sustainable and equitable development. In particular, the issues of analysis and social space, the quality of public space, its accessibility, safety, welfare and quality of urban life in general must take account of design methodologies, target oriented, attentive to the specific needs of a plural society, sensitive to differences (sex, age, race, language, religion, culture, social conditions). In this context, the programs at the international level on equal opportunities are intended to contribute to the achievement of the "Millennium Development Goals" through gender mainstreaming policies and actions, to be taken even in the field of urban planning, management and governance. It is an unavoidable challenge that requires responsibility and commitment on the part of the different local actors so that the joint action of top- down strategies of gender mainstreaming planning and bottom- up policy can produce effective results. In light of these remarks, and with reference to specific case studies, the paper proposes a reflection on the need for a "gender sensitive" lens in urban planning - also intertwined with issues of transportation, safety and security, accessibility of places, times and schedules planning - able to guarantee urban quality, social inclusion and active participation for smarter cities.
