Participation of university youth in the city from a youth-friendly city perspective; :Isparta example

This thesis addresses the representation of youth in urban space, their relationships with the city, and the extent of their participation in urban decision-making processes from a "Youth-Friendly City" perspective. It investigates, in a multifaceted manner, young people's experiences in urban spaces, their access to these spaces, their level of participation in policy processes, and their unique needs and problems. In this context, a comprehensive analysis was conducted in the city of Isparta based on field observations and a survey study involving 125 university students during the 2024– 2025 academic year. The survey, consisting of 45 questions, provided data that was evaluated to identify the spatial concentrations of students, their spatial requirements, problems, and demands. These findings were analyzed across a variety of urban functions such as housing, education, studying, socializing and entertainment, shopping, rest, transportation, eating and drinking, sports and arts, and healthcare. Youth is known to be a complex phase of life, characterized by growing independence, identity exploration, and increasing importance of social relationships. When young people's expectations of urban space during this period are considered, accessibility, opportunities for socialization, safety, and a sense of belonging emerge as key themes. However, contemporary planning processes are often shaped around healthy adult male users, leading to the neglect of youth needs and the exclusion of youth from urban spaces. Within this framework, the concept of a "Youth-Friendly City" refers not only to spatial arrangements designed to meet the needs of young people but also to an approach that advocates for their participation in governance and active citizenship. The findings obtained through surveys and field observations in Isparta indicate that the relationship between university youth and the city remains relatively superficial. Factors such as the lack of youth-oriented public spaces, insufficient alternative transportation options, limited safety in urban areas, a shortage of sports facilities, and a lack of participatory governance mechanisms hinder Isparta from achieving a youthfriendly urban vision. On the other hand, the city's compact urban form, relatively preserved natural environment, and the abundance of green areas are positive features for youth. The study proposes various planning recommendations to promote youth-friendly urban development both in Isparta and across Turkey. The recommendations specific to Isparta emphasize the necessity of reorganizing urban spaces and restructuring governance, participation, and municipal services to support these changes. General recommendations include planning and designing equitable, accessible, safe, inclusive, and sustainable urban environments that strengthen young people's sense of belonging and support their healthy development at citywide, neighborhood, and street scales. Furthermore, the study presents suggestions for improving zoning legislation to protect the spatial rights of young people and promote more just and inclusive planning practices. In conclusion, this thesis reveals the necessity of expanding the "youth-friendly city" model which prioritizes meeting the spatial expectations of young people and encouraging their participation in societal life both in academic literature and in practical applications, while offering an original framework that contributes to this goal Keywords: Youth-Friendly City, University Youth, City of Isparta, Participation