Housing cooperatives, housing systems and the state. Historical lessons from Europe, Australia and Latin America

This resource titled "Housing cooperatives, housing systems and the state. Historical lessons from Europe, Australia and Latin America" is published in the journal Housing Studies. The article is authored by Jardar Sørvoll, Claire Carriou, and Richard Lang, who explore the intersection of cooperative housing and broader housing systems across various global contexts.

The article focuses on the historical development of housing cooperatives—residences owned and managed by residents themselves—and their influence on housing systems in different countries. It defines 'housing systems' broadly as the rules, norms, and policies governing housing planning, financing, production, and distribution.

Cooperative housing has been a significant element in several nations, particularly in Europe, where countries like Norway, Sweden, and Germany have rich traditions of cooperative housing. However, the literature often overlooks the role of housing cooperatives in the broader housing systems discourse.

The special issue includes studies from various geographical contexts including Latin America, the Nordic countries, Central and Southern Europe, and Australia. Each study reveals how historical and institutional variations influence the growth and function of housing cooperatives.

The authors highlight that cooperative housing has adapted to different political ideologies, from liberal reformers to radical leftists. They argue that the success of housing cooperatives often relies on state support and grassroots mobilization. In Uruguay, for instance, a strong cooperative movement has resulted in significant political and institutional backing.

Despite the potential of housing cooperatives to provide affordable housing, they face challenges such as commodification and market pressures. The article discusses how political changes, such as transitions from socialist to neoliberal regimes, have affected cooperative housing dynamics in countries like Chile and Hungary.

The publication includes detailed case studies, such as the examination of Swedish cooperatives and their evolution due to deregulation and market pressures. Other studies address the cooperative housing landscape in Denmark and Finland, showcasing the varying degrees of influence and historical significance of cooperatives in these regions.

The article concludes by calling for more research into cooperative housing as a viable alternative in the face of current housing crises, emphasizing that cooperative models can contribute to affordable housing solutions. It stresses the importance of understanding the historical context to shape future policies effectively.

The findings aim to enrich the existing literature on housing systems and cooperative housing by providing historical perspectives that are often neglected. This resource serves as a valuable reference for policymakers, researchers, and housing advocates interested in sustainable housing solutions.