A new way of living: how Catalonia is making housing more affordable and inclusive

The Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB) focuses on promoting social cohesion and sustainable development across Europe. This publication, authored by Raquel Paramo and edited by Jelica Vesic, explores innovative housing solutions in Catalonia aimed at addressing affordability and inclusivity.

Catalonia, one of Spain's most dynamic yet expensive regions, faces a significant housing crisis. Many families, like the Andreu family, experience instability due to rising rents and short lease contracts, leading to frequent relocations and disconnection from their communities. Homes in this area have increasingly become financial assets, causing severe housing insecurity for families, young people, and older residents.

The Sostre Cívic cooperative offers a transformative approach to housing through a model known as "cessió d’ús" or "right of use." In this system, residents do not own or rent homes in the traditional sense; instead, they pay a manageable monthly fee to live in cooperative-owned buildings. This model ensures that homes remain affordable since they are not subject to the volatile real estate market.

Sostre Cívic emphasizes sustainability, participation, and community. Each project encourages residents to partake in decision-making processes, including budgeting and maintaining shared spaces. This fosters a sense of ownership and comfort among residents, who contribute to the design and function of their homes. Common areas in some buildings include kitchens and gardens, enhancing community engagement.

International financial institutions, including the CEB, are increasingly called upon to support affordable housing initiatives. The CEB has provided a €31 million loan to Sostre Cívic, facilitating the development of numerous cooperative housing units. This funding is crucial for addressing public housing gaps and ensuring that affordable housing remains accessible to all citizens.

The CEB's support has enabled Sostre Cívic to expand significantly, allowing the development of 350 new cooperative homes. This partnership illustrates how local, community-driven housing initiatives can gain traction with international backing. The EU's InvestEU guarantee program further enhances the potential for scaling such projects, making them financially viable.

For families like the Andreu family, cooperative housing has provided stability and a sense of belonging in their community. The model promotes cooperation and support, making life easier for residents. What began as a local response to rising rents has emerged as a viable alternative for affordable housing.

Sostre Cívic exemplifies how innovative financing and cooperative housing models can address one of Europe’s pressing challenges: making housing a fundamental right. With community ownership and public support, this initiative demonstrates that affordable housing can be achieved differently, ensuring long-term sustainability and inclusiveness.