European Research on Housing Cooperatives

The document titled "European Research on Housing Cooperatives" provides insights into the potential contributions of housing cooperatives to the Dutch housing market. It was commissioned by the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations of the Netherlands, with contributions from authors Michel Briene, Robert Kievit, Erik van Ossenbruggen, Rixt Bos, and Frank de Gouw. The research highlights the evolving role of housing cooperatives in Europe, particularly in addressing housing shortages and affordability issues.

The document outlines the legal framework established by the revised Housing Act in the Netherlands, which has allowed tenants of housing corporations to form housing cooperatives since July 1, 2015. Despite this legislative support, the evaluation of the revised Housing Act indicates limited practical experience with establishing such cooperatives. Challenges include financial barriers and a lack of awareness among tenants regarding the possibilities of cooperative housing.

The research includes a comparative analysis of housing cooperatives in Denmark, Germany, Austria, Sweden, and Switzerland. It highlights that the systems and functions of housing cooperatives vary significantly across these countries. For instance, housing cooperatives in Denmark and Sweden operate under regulations that promote member ownership and community involvement, while Germany's cooperatives are more traditional and focused on reducing dependency on private landlords.

The report identifies several key characteristics of housing cooperatives across Europe. They typically aim to provide affordable housing options to underserved demographics, including low- and middle-income households. In the Netherlands, however, the contribution of housing cooperatives to the overall housing market remains limited due to the dominance of housing corporations. In contrast, Scandinavian countries report a more significant presence of cooperatives, ranging from 4% to 24% of the housing market.

The added value of housing cooperatives is seen in their ability to meet specific housing needs, promote sustainability, and enhance community engagement. They often provide an alternative living arrangement that fosters shared responsibility among members regarding the management and maintenance of their living environments. The document emphasizes that successful housing cooperatives can address not only affordability but also social cohesion and sustainable living practices.

Despite the potential benefits, the research also discusses the challenges faced by housing cooperatives in the Netherlands, including financial constraints, legal limitations, and a lack of institutional support. It suggests that lessons from other European countries could be valuable for enhancing the effectiveness and viability of housing cooperatives in the Netherlands. Specific instruments and policies that have been effective in promoting cooperatives abroad could be adapted to fit the Dutch context.

In conclusion, the document provides a comprehensive analysis of housing cooperatives in Europe, revealing their potential to contribute to sustainable housing solutions. It calls for further exploration of cooperative models to enhance housing availability and affordability, particularly in the context of current housing market pressures. The insights gathered from this research could serve as a foundation for policymakers and practitioners interested in developing sustainable housing strategies across Europe.