City Health Journal

How Cultural Events Affect Happiness in Urban Public Spaces: Evidence from Three Plazas in Tehran

sahar samavati — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Abstract

Examining Iran's historical and cultural background in happiness shows that, in the past, Iranian people honored national and local celebrations as part of their religious rituals and ceremonies. Cultural events and happiness have traditionally been regarded as public activities in Iranian society. The happiness concept, however, has lost its significant role in the contemporary period as a result of cultural shifts. Based on the World Happiness Reports, the average level of happiness demonstrates an inappropriate state (4.6 out of 10) among Iranian people.

Despite the recognized importance of cultural events for happiness, few studies have considered the relationship between cultural events and perceived momentary urban happiness in public spaces. Using the path analysis method, this research examines the relationship between happiness and cultural events in Tehran's public spaces.

The results lead to the conclusion that cultural events affect perceived urban happiness both directly and indirectly. The results show that citizens connect with the content of the event. As to the indirect relationship, cultural events affect the quality of public spaces, and the citizens’ satisfaction with public life causes happiness. The results also indicate that, among the qualities of public spaces related to events, "walk and discover the place," "safety and relaxation," and "recreational activities" have the most substantial impact on perceived urban happiness.

Çevrenin Kasten Kirletilmesi Suçu (TCK m. 181)

Hüseyin Delibalta — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The increasing importance of environmental problems has strengthened the role of law in this area. The right of everyone to live in a healthy and balanced environment, guaranteed by the Constitution, is also protected by Article 181 of the Turkish Penal Code No. 5237. This study examines in detail how the criminal norm titled “Deliberate pollution of the environment” is regulated in the Turkish Penal Code. This regulation, which was introduced specifically for the purpose of protecting the environment, has addressed all aspects of the crime from its elements to its prosecution, and the sanctions to be faced when the environment is polluted have been explained in the light of the views in practice and doctrine.

Evaluating Roundabouts and Parking Reforms in Urban Traffic Management: Insights from Case Studies in the USA, Japan, and India

Deniz Yazar, Özden Gokdemir — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Urban traffic congestion and road safety are critical challenges in the 21st century, exacerbated by rapid urbanization and increasing reliance on motor vehicles. This study evaluates the effectiveness of roundabouts, parking reforms, and pedestrian-friendly designs in improving road safety and urban livability. Through a systematic review of literature and case studies from Bristol, VA (USA), Japan, and India, the paper highlights the benefits of these interventions, including crash reduction, smoother traffic flow, and enhanced pedestrian safety. The findings underscore the importance of human-centered design, data-driven policies, and sustainable urban planning. Key recommendations include the adoption of roundabouts in high-traffic areas, district-based parking models, and integrated urban planning strategies. This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on traffic management by providing actionable insights for policymakers and urban planners.