THE ROLE OF URBAN DESIGN IN PREVENTING CRIME: INSIGHTS FROM ENVIRONMENTAL CRIMINOLOGY

Authors

  • Fazail Asrar Ahmed Visiting Faculty Member, Department of Law, University of Sialkot, Punjab, Pakistan.
  • Aamir Akhtar LLM Scholar, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, China.
  • Seema Gul Lecturer, Department of Law, University of Sialkot, Punjab, Pakistan.

Keywords:

Environmental Design, Crime Deterrence & Infrastructure, Spatial Planning & Community Engagement, Socioeconomic Factors, Public Space Management.

Abstract

Urban design plays a pivotal role in shaping social interactions and mitigating crime in modern cities. This study explores the intersection of urban planning and environmental criminology, examining how design principles influence crime prevention. Drawing from key criminological theories, such as Routine Activity Theory, Crime Pattern Theory, and Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED), the research investigates the relationship between physical environments and criminal behavior. The study adopts a mixed-method approach, combining a comprehensive literature review with case study analysis of urban spaces known for their effective crime prevention strategies. Findings reveal that specific urban design elements such as natural surveillance, territorial reinforcement, and controlled accessibility significantly deter criminal activity by enhancing visibility, fostering a sense of community ownership, and reducing opportunities for illicit behavior. However, challenges such as socioeconomic disparities, policy limitations, and urban density complexities often hinder the implementation of crime-preventive designs. This research underscores the need for a multidisciplinary approach, integrating urban design, public policy, and community participation to create safer urban environments. The findings provide valuable insights for urban planners, policymakers, and community stakeholders, offering actionable recommendations to incorporate crime prevention into urban development strategies. Further research is recommended to address context-specific challenges and to explore innovative design solutions for evolving urban landscapes.

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01 Eng Final PAKISTAN ISLAMICUS January March 2025 Vol 05 Issue 01 Citation Page

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Published

02-01-2025

How to Cite

Fazail Asrar Ahmed, Aamir Akhtar, & Seema Gul. (2025). THE ROLE OF URBAN DESIGN IN PREVENTING CRIME: INSIGHTS FROM ENVIRONMENTAL CRIMINOLOGY. PAKISTAN ISLAMICUS (An International Journal of Islamic & Social Sciences), 5(01), 01–13. Retrieved from http://www.pakistanislamicus.com/index.php/home/article/view/205