Born to be Free: A Regional Study of Interventions to Enhance Women and Girls’ Safety and Mobility in Public Spaces Report

Born to Be Free, commissioned by the UN Women Asia-Pacific Regional Office and authored by Dr Emma Fulu, examines the safety and mobility of women and girls in public spaces across the Asia-Pacific region. The report highlights the pervasive risk of harassment, sexual violence, and femicide in streets, public transport, schools, workplaces, and community areas, while pointing to a significant gap in legislation addressing sexual harassment — leaving many incidents to occur with impunity.

The study reviewed 55 evaluated interventions, surveyed over 118 global stakeholders, conducted more than 50 in-depth interviews, and included field visits in Indonesia, Viet Nam, and the Republic of Korea. Initiatives assessed ranged from community-driven data collection, school and after-school programs addressing harmful gender norms, and media campaigns, to transport-sector initiatives, police engagement, and legal support services. The findings emphasise that interventions are most effective when they adopt a gender-transformative lens, involve multiple stakeholders, and prioritise the autonomy and agency of women and girls, particularly those from marginalised communities.

Recommendations stress the importance of inclusive approaches, stronger evaluations, and moving beyond narrow protectionist frameworks. Effective interventions should not only reduce violence but also enhance women’s freedom of movement, mobility, and participation in public life, recognising women and girls as active agents in shaping their safety and rights.