The Right to Housing - A Mission-Oriented and Human Rights-Based Approach

The Right to Housing - A Mission-Oriented and Human Rights-Based Approach is a comprehensive document published by the UCL Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose, authored by Mariana Mazzucato and Leilani Farha. This paper emphasizes the imperative of recognizing housing as a fundamental human right, essential for well-being and the foundation of various other rights, including health, education, and freedom of expression.

An alarming statistic highlights that over one billion people worldwide lack adequate housing. Rapid urbanization is exacerbating the crisis, with more than two-thirds of the global population projected to live in cities by 2030. In 2020, approximately 700,000 people in the European Union experienced homelessness each night, marking a 70% increase over the past decade. The report underscores that housing costs are outpacing income growth, leading to a widespread affordability crisis.

The document argues that the housing crisis is intertwined with issues of financialization and climate change. Currently, buildings account for about 36% of global CO2 emissions. The paper emphasizes that the financialization of housing has transformed homes into financial assets, driving up prices and leaving vulnerable populations at risk of eviction and homelessness. Climate-related disasters disproportionately affect marginalized groups, with millions displaced annually due to extreme weather events.

The authors advocate for a robust human rights framework to ensure accountability in housing policies. Governments are urged to legislate the right to housing and take meaningful steps to fulfill their obligations. This includes ensuring housing is affordable, secure, and equipped with essential services. The report outlines key characteristics of adequate housing, including accessibility, cultural appropriateness, and sustainability.

The paper proposes a mission-oriented approach to reshape housing policies. This involves setting bold government missions that prioritize human rights and catalyze cross-sectoral collaboration. By working across various sectors—such as finance, urban planning, and health—governments can mobilize resources and innovation to address the housing crisis effectively.

A significant focus is placed on the necessity of public-private partnerships to achieve housing missions. The document advocates for partnerships that prioritize the common good over profit, emphasizing the need for regulatory frameworks that ensure equitable outcomes. Successful examples from cities like Barcelona illustrate how collaborative efforts can lead to innovative housing solutions.

The report highlights the importance of public finance and taxation in achieving mission goals. Governments are encouraged to deploy long-term, outcome-focused public finance mechanisms that align with human rights obligations. It is essential to monitor progress and hold all stakeholders accountable, ensuring transparency and responsiveness to community needs.

Ultimately, the document posits that addressing the global housing crisis requires a paradigm shift in how governments approach housing as a human right. By integrating human rights principles with mission-oriented policies, governments can foster a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient housing system that meets the needs of all citizens.