European Research on Housing Cooperatives

The document titled "European Research on Housing Cooperatives" presents insights into the potential contributions of housing cooperatives to the Dutch housing market. Published under the auspices of the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, it features contributions from various authors, including Michel Briene, Robert Kievit, Erik van Ossenbruggen, Rixt Bos, and Frank de Gouw. The research aims to evaluate the role of housing cooperatives in various European countries, including Denmark, Germany, Austria, Sweden, and Switzerland, and to draw comparisons with the Dutch context.

Housing cooperatives in the Netherlands are defined as associations with full legal authority, aimed at enabling members to manage and maintain their residences collectively. Since the amended Housing Act came into effect, there has been limited practical experience in establishing these cooperatives. Challenges include financial barriers and a lack of sufficient governmental support, making it difficult for tenants to gain control over their housing situations.

The study evaluates housing cooperatives across five countries, revealing significant differences in their roles and structures. For example, in Denmark, housing cooperatives account for about 7.4% of the total housing stock, whereas in Germany, they hold approximately 5% of the housing market. Each country’s cooperative framework reflects its unique socio-economic challenges, influencing how cooperatives develop and operate.

In all countries studied, housing cooperatives primarily serve low- to middle-income households. They provide an essential alternative for individuals who cannot find affordable housing on the conventional market. The document highlights that cooperative housing is particularly effective in addressing the needs of underserved populations, such as single parents or the elderly, who face barriers in accessing suitable residences.

Most housing cooperatives are structured as associations where members participate democratically in decision-making processes. This model fosters community engagement and enhances the residents' sense of ownership. However, the governance structure can vary widely, with some cooperatives implementing more formalized management systems, while others maintain a grassroots approach.

Financing for housing cooperatives typically involves contributions from members and external funding. In countries like Austria and Switzerland, local and federal governments often provide subsidies or financial incentives to promote affordable housing. In contrast, Dutch cooperatives face challenges due to limited financial support from banks unfamiliar with their operational model, leading to difficulties in securing necessary funding for new projects.

The research emphasizes the potential of housing cooperatives to address pressing issues in the housing market, such as affordability, availability, and community cohesion. While cooperatives in the Netherlands currently have a limited market share, the document suggests that lessons learned from other European countries could inform the development of more robust cooperative frameworks in the Netherlands.

Overall, the document serves as an important resource for understanding the role of housing cooperatives in Europe, particularly in the context of sustainability and affordable housing. It outlines key challenges and opportunities for cooperatives, highlighting their relevance in addressing housing needs across diverse populations and markets.