This policy brief is proposed by the UNESCO Chair in Inclusive Toponymy from the University of Geneva. It is devoted to a gender-balanced public space through place names.

It is aimed at all stakeholders involved or wishing to become involved in place naming and its social enhancement, in particular local authorities, their elected representatives and administrations, neighborhood and heritage associations, feminist activist groups and educational institutions.

It was drawn up following a multi-stakeholder forum and is based on a critical analysis. of a number of remarkable and/or inspiring experiences. In particular, Geneva’s proactive experience is a point of reference and the City of Geneva is partner in the project.

The recommendations and examples are divided into four stages, each representing a potential area for action:

• Mapping the issue
• Identify eligible female personalities for naming
• Inventing places to name
• Naming qualitatively

In this way, all the actors involved can participate with inspiration and creativity in an approach to renovating and opening up public space that combines functionality, inclusion, participation and an understanding of the social and historical aspects of places.