Prevention of security threats in public space in the context of urban development

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore effective approaches to ensuring security in public spaces of modern cities through the analysis of international practices and the integration of architectural, technological, and social solutions into urban planning. The methodology of the study was based on the conceptual framework of the smart city theory and the principles of sustainable urban development, using systematic and comparative analysis, as well as the examination of real-life examples. The study analysed a wide range of threats, including criminal, anthropogenic, natural, socio-political, and information. The findings showed that the most effective strategies are integrated strategies that combine architectural solutions, such as the “safe design” concept – prevention through Environmental Design, technological innovations such as video surveillance systems with analytical capabilities, and social initiatives such as community patrol programmes. The analysis of cases such as Amsterdam: The Transformation of Bijlmermeer and Nordic Safe Cities confirmed the significance of integrating security measures into urban planning. The findings showed that such integrated approaches not only reduce crime, but also contribute to the creation of safe and comfortable conditions for social interaction. A major factor in the success of these strategies is their adaptability to the local context and the active engagement of the public in the planning and implementation of security measures. The findings demonstrated that successful strategies must be flexible, adapted to the local context, and involve the community in the planning process. Therewith, a series of challenges were identified, including the necessity of balancing security and openness of urban space, risks of social segregation, and challenges related to privacy. The findings have implications for the development of urban planning practices, as they confirm the effectiveness of comprehensive strategies that ensure safety while maintaining the open nature of public spaces.