BADALA—short for Bailleurs-Acteurs du Droit Au Logement Abordable—is a Brussels-based association and movement for landlords and property owners who want to support access to affordable housing. It presents housing first as a social responsibility and a fundamental right, rather than simply an investment or source of profit.34
The initiative was launched in October 2023 and became active in Saint-Gilles in 2025, with plans to extend its work across the Brussels-Capital Region.5 A September 2026 account describes the association as founded in early 2026 and says it had gathered around 240–250 members, mostly in Brussels.3 BADALA is led by Laurent d’Ursel, identified as the project’s driving force.3
BADALA seeks to organise and represent responsible landlords, including owner-occupiers, and to distinguish their concerns from those of traditional landlord representation.23 Its member charter sets out practices such as meeting housing standards, avoiding discrimination, respecting the indicative rent scale, maintaining properties and seeking mediation in disputes. It also encourages members to consider social rental agencies and non-speculative housing initiatives.3 BADALA combines this member-focused work with public engagement on affordable housing; its 2025 Saint-Gilles programme included events and discussions about housing access and landlord responsibilities.69
The organisation is based in Brussels, Belgium, and its stated work is centred on the Brussels-Capital Region. Although its materials invite property owners beyond Brussels, the sources describe its activities and membership as predominantly Brussels-focused.345