Citizen security a and informal territories. Case study: Gran Yomasa, Bogotá, Colombia

Abstract

This study evaluates citizens’ perceptions of security risks through a participatory approach in the Gran Yomasa sector of Bogotá, Colombia, using a nonexperimental quantitative methodology focused on commercial spaces. The research recognises the area as a precarious urban settlement, characterised by high levels of poverty, deteriorated infrastructure and exposure to various types of crime. A risk matrix was defined using variables such as vulnerability, exposure, dangerousness and degree of territorial consolidation, and surveys were conducted with 55 people affiliated with the Yomasa institutional project. The methodology involves identifying categories, variables and indicators related to public space and applying a mathematical formula to determine the level of perceived risk. The results show that areas such as bars, discos, shops and supermarkets present very high levels of risk due to constant foot traffic and low regulation. In contrast, activities such as hairdressing, hardware stores and courier services are associated with low or very low levels of perceived risk. The analysis included a comparison between citizens’ perceptions and official crime statistics. The study concludes that perceived insecurity is strongly linked to infrastructural conditions, spatial configuration and informality of trade. The study proposes evidence-based urban planning, integrating environmental criminology theories with participatory approaches to design inclusive crime prevention strategies. Participation and physical improvement of the environment are key elements in reducing insecurity and improving quality of life.