Global corporate landlordism and a new cycle of tenant contention

Global corporate landlordism and a new cycle of tenant contention is a comprehensive article published by Urban Studies, authored by Lorenzo Vidal, Javier Gil, and Miguel A. Martínez. The article provides an in-depth exploration of the rising conflicts between global corporate landlords (GCLs) and tenants, particularly in the context of contemporary urban housing crises.

The article begins by discussing the emergence of GCLs, particularly in the wake of the 2008 global financial crisis. It argues that aggressive property management practices employed by GCLs have catalyzed a new cycle of tenant contention. The authors emphasize that rental housing has increasingly become a global asset class, significantly impacting how tenants negotiate their living conditions.

The authors highlight that the struggles between tenants and GCLs have evolved into open collective conflicts across various urban contexts, notably in the Global North, including Spain, Germany, the UK, and the US. The article presents a comparative reading of tenant struggles and notes that while GCLs are not globally ubiquitous, they source capital from institutional investors across multiple countries. This concentration of power has led to increased tenant mobilization and demands for change.

The article outlines the operational logics of GCLs, emphasizing how their capital is primarily sourced from institutional investors, including pension funds and private equity firms. This financialization has transformed housing into a financial asset, undermining its social function as a residence. The aggressive management practices not only drive rent increases but also often result in the displacement of existing residents.

The article details the emergence of a new generation of housing organizations and tenant unions that respond to the challenges posed by GCLs. Tactics such as anti-eviction resistance and rent strikes have become prominent tools for confrontations. The authors note that the expansive reach of GCLs has allowed tenants to scale their struggles from individual buildings to citywide and national campaigns, fostering alliances with other social movements.

Significant legal and policy changes are emerging in response to tenant demands, including the reintroduction of rent controls and legislative measures aimed at curbing aggressive property management strategies. The article discusses how these changes are part of a broader shift away from neoliberal policies in various locales, suggesting a move toward socialized housing models. Campaigns for expropriation and socialization of corporate-owned housing are also highlighted as radical proposals gaining traction.

The authors conclude by underscoring the importance of continued research on GCLs and tenant struggles beyond the Global North, pointing to the need for a broader geographical scope in scholarly attention. They advocate for a multidimensional approach to tenant organizing that combines grassroots efforts with legal strategies to navigate the complex landscape of housing governance. This article serves as a crucial resource for understanding the dynamics of tenant contention in the face of growing corporate landlordism, offering insights into sustainable housing practices and the ongoing struggle for housing justice across Europe.