Women's leadership in housing improvements

a review and analysis of data on social technologies and technical assistance in social housing

Abstract

This study investigates the state of the art regarding women’s roles in social housing contexts, with an emphasis on capacity-building through social technologies, based on a systematic literature review combined with an analysis of empirical data obtained through questionnaires administered to female residents of housing complexes. The analysis revealed that despite the growing discussion about women’s participation in housing, in housing rights movements and in self-managed processes, there is a gap in the literature regarding the relationship between the technical empowerment of women through digital tools and their direct involvement in the renovation and adaptation of their homes. It is also observed that the collected data indicate a positive perception of the potential of renovation and capacity-building activities as an alternative for generating income and making improvements to their own homes. Recognizing that women’s capacity-building is essential for promoting more adequate housing highlights the importance of strategies that expand access to technical assistance, directly linking to Sustainable Development Goals 3, 5, 10 and 11.