Mapping Material Deprivation in the Municipality of Athens

The study aimed to investigate and spatially map poverty and material deprivation in the Municipality of Athens. Using socioeconomic and housing-related variables, levels of material deprivation were analysed and mapped at the level of Urban Spatial Analysis Units. In parallel, an in-depth qualitative study was conducted in the 4th Municipal District and the wider “red zone” characterised by high levels of deprivation, focusing on Patissia, Amerikis Square, Attiki Square and Vathis Square. Interviews, focus groups and field research were used to investigate issues related to insecure or inadequate housing, hidden homelessness based on the ETHOS typology, employment, food insecurity and energy poverty. The combined analysis of quantitative and qualitative findings supported the development of targeted policy measures to address material deprivation. In this way, the study created an evidence-based knowledge base for identifying the most pronounced spatial inequalities, gaining a more comprehensive understanding of lived experiences of deprivation, and improving the design of social interventions and services.