SAFOMETER - ASSESSING SAFETY IN PUBLIC SPACES: THE URBAN AREA OF PRISHTINA

Abstract. This paper introduces SafoMeter, a framework for assessing safety in public spaces using an index-based evaluation system that combines objective safety indicators with subjective perceptions of safety. The methodology is piloted in the urban area of Prishtina, Kosovo, and involves field data collection using the mobile application Mergin to map data for objective indicators and gather user responses on perceived safety. Analysis is conducted using QGIS software to create a map that showcases safe and unsafe areas of the city, rated from 0 to 10, with 10 indicating the safest areas. The study results demonstrate that SafoMeter effectively identifies and visualizes areas in need of urgent safety interventions. The tool enables evidence-based decision-making for policymakers by utilizing geospatial data to identify specific locations that require interventions. SafoMeter provides a practical approach to assess safety in public spaces and guide place-based policies to enhance urban safety, particularly for marginalized groups.