Resource overview
“Profiles of a Movement: Co-operative Housing Around the World” is a report published by CECODHAS Housing Europe and ICA Housing. It was researched and coordinated by Sylvie Moreau and Alice Pittini, with editing contributions from Jane Cameron, James Thorogood, and Dominic Wood. The publication aims to make the co-operative housing sector better known by documenting its history, current realities, and practical value as an economic and social response to housing needs.
Why co-operative housing is highlighted
The report frames co-operative housing as a collective ownership and governance approach designed to secure access to housing and strengthen social cohesion. It emphasises democratic member control, typically organised around the principle of “one person, one vote,” and describes co-operatives as oriented toward member benefit rather than profit maximisation. 🇪🇺 Scale and presence in Europe A central data point for Europe is that CECODHAS Housing Europe represents roughly 12% of existing dwellings within the European Union. The report notes that nearly 35,000 housing co-operatives manage more than 10.5 million dwellings and involve around 11 million members. These figures are used to show that co-operative housing is a significant tenure form in parts of Europe, not a niche model.
Global footprint and networks
At the international level, the report points to ICA Housing’s membership spanning 30 countries. This global reach is presented as evidence that co-operative housing exists across different market and policy contexts, and that it is supported by organised networks that promote shared principles and exchange practices.
Models and defining characteristics
While acknowledging that co-operative housing models vary by country, the report describes common features: joint or collective ownership structures and democratic decision-making by members. The governance structure is presented as a defining element that differentiates co-operative housing from investor-led rental or speculative ownership models.
Historical roots and established markets
The report traces the emergence of independent housing co-operatives back to the mid-19th century and notes that many early co-operatives continue to operate. It also cites several European countries—Poland, the Czech Republic, Sweden, and Norway—as places where co-operative housing is recognised as an important component of national housing markets.
Reported benefits and stated pressures
The report links co-operative housing to affordability objectives through its focus on member interests and its emphasis on long-term stability, alongside social cohesion outcomes. It also identifies pressures facing the sector, including responding to rising demand for affordable housing, adapting to socio-demographic change, and integrating environmental sustainability into management and development practices.
Contributors referenced in the publication
In addition to the coordinating researchers and editors, the introduction is associated with sector representatives including David Rodgers (ICA Housing), Vit Vanicek (CECODHAS Housing Europe), and Luciano Caffini (CECODHAS Housing Europe Co-operative Section), reflecting an effort to position the report within established European and international housing co-operative networks.