Gender-Friendly Dormitories: A Comprehensive View of Mixed-Gender Living Experiences in Eastern and Western Cultures

Article by Chen Le-I
Editor/ Lin Tien-Yu

Gender-friendly dormitories, also known as co-ed dormitories, are dormitories that do not distinguish students by gender when assigning rooms or floors. They are designed to promote gender equality, gender respect, and gender diversity. 

In North American countries such as the United States and Canada, this type of dormitory has been widely supported by the appeal to support gender equality and gender diversity. Many universities, such as Harvard, offer gender-friendly dormitories to students. However, the safety of gender-friendly dormitories remains controversial for the public.

Yang Ai-Hsin (楊艾昕), a sophomore in the Department of Education, shared her experience of living in a gender-friendly dormitory when she studied in China. As a Malaysian Chinese, she expressed her support for gender-equal dormitories. Referring to her experience of living in a mixed dorm in China three years ago, Yang said that co-ed dorms are relatively common. However, she noted the concept of gender-friendly dormitories is not as widely accepted in her country.

Teng Tao-Chien (鄧道建), who came to National Chengchi University for an exchange last year, also has experience living in a gender-friendly dormitory. He said that many universities in Western countries do not divide dormitories by gender. "This is freer for students," Deng said.

Deng emphasized the need for supporting mea su re s to e n sure th e sa fety of female students living in gender-friendly dormitories. He said that women may face additional challenges in the type of living environment.

Gender-neutral dormitories are becoming increasingly common in Taiwan. While these dormitories offer potential benefits, addressing safety concerns is crucial for their successful implementation.