Η βιώσιμη αστική κινητικότητα υπό το πρίσμα των ευάλωτων κοινωνικών ομάδων : η περίπτωση της Αθήνας
Sustainable urban mobility from the perspective of vulnerable social groups : the case of Athens
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Keywords
Βιώσιμη Αστική Κινητικότητα ; Ευάλωτες κοινωνικές ομάδες ; Προσβασιμότητα ; ΑμεΑ ; Αθήνα ; Συγκριτική ανάλυση ; Κοινωνική δικαιοσύνη ; Sustainable Urban Mobility (SUM) ; Vulnerable social groups ; Accessibility ; Persons with Disabilities (PwD) ; Athens ; Comparative analysis ; Social justiceAbstract
This study highlights Sustainable Urban Mobility (SUM), as a pivotal mechanism for ensuring social justice and equitable accessibility for vulnerable social groups. The theoretical framework of the paper covers Smart City and Net Zero Cities strategies, as well as the role of smart technologies and regulatory measures in improving mobility, establishing the premise that disability constitutes an environmental barrier, which can be neutralized through holistic urban planning. The investigation combines a critical analysis of the policies and infrastructure within the Municipality of Athens with a comparative assessment against three European models: those of Copenhagen, Barcelona, and Vienna.
The findings for Athens indicate structural deficiencies that hinder autonomous movement. Significant shortcomings are identified in the accessibility of public transport stops for road-based vehicles and an inadequate extent of pedestrian infrastructure, elements that reinforce the dominance of private car use. Furthermore, the high number of violations concerning parking on disabled access ramps underscores anti-social behavior and the challenge of effective enforcement, despite the installation of smart sensors. Nevertheless, the high accessibility in fixed-rail transport stations and the utilization of digital tools demonstrate positive efforts towards digital transition.
The comparison concludes that Athens must adopt a holistic planning philosophy, moving beyond fragmented interventions. Targeted strategic interventions are proposed for the radical upgrade of transport infrastructure, the enhancement of active and safe mobility, and the implementation of socially just policies that will transform the urban environment. Finally, the imperative need for intensified controls and the cultivation of broader social awareness is emphasized, aiming to secure an equitable and accessible environment for all citizens, eliminating existing discrimination.


