Housing

Housing: A Human Right

According to Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

1. Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary social services, and the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability, widowhood, old age or other lack of livelihood in circumstances beyond his control.
2. Motherhood and childhood are entitled to special care and assistance. All children, whether born in or out of wedlock, shall enjoy the same social protection.

This fundamental right to housing should be available to all individuals, regardless of their circumstances. However, the reality in many parts of the world, including here in Canada, is far from this ideal. Housing has become increasingly out of reach for many, and instead of being treated as a basic human right, it is often regarded as a commodity—an investment opportunity for the wealthy rather than a safe space to live and thrive.

The Housing Crisis: A Growing Concern

Housing shortages are not just an issue; they are a crisis. As land and properties are increasingly bought up by foreign investors and large corporations, the dream of homeownership becomes more distant for regular citizens. Meanwhile, we see billionaires living in $82 million homes while countless others remain homeless on the streets. The stark contrast between the ultra-wealthy and those struggling to find affordable housing is growing ever wider, and it affects us all. Homelessness is not just a personal issue—it is a societal issue that requires collective action.

At the same time, we must question the very concept of home. Is it a place of security, community, and well-being, or has it simply become an asset for investment? In many communities, houses that were once homes are now left empty, decaying, and underutilized. We need to ask ourselves: What is the true value of a home, and how can we shift the current system to prioritize people over profits?

Indigenous Housing and the Loss of Communal Living

Indigenous communities have long understood the importance of communal housing—shared spaces where resources were used collectively, and the well-being of the group was the priority. This model stands in stark contrast to today’s focus on individual ownership and the accumulation of wealth through real estate. The shift from communal living to a system where land and homes are treated as personal assets has had lasting impacts, especially for Indigenous peoples, whose land rights and housing sovereignty continue to be threatened.

We need to learn from Indigenous traditions and restore a sense of community and sharing in our approach to housing. This may involve rethinking the way we design, build, and maintain homes—prioritizing sustainability, affordability, and connection rather than profit-driven development.

The Impact of Foreign Investment and Drones on Local Housing Markets

In cities like Vancouver, the influx of foreign buyers has led to skyrocketing property prices, pushing local residents out of the market. Many long-time residents are now unable to afford homes in their own communities, as real estate has become an investment vehicle for the rich and powerful. Additionally, technology like drones is enabling real estate agents to sell properties without any connection to the community, often leading to a loss of local culture and a sense of displacement. In places like Kitsilano, young agents come, sell off properties, and move on—without considering the needs and well-being of the people who have lived there for generations.

The Need for Collective Action and Change

The housing crisis is a multifaceted issue that requires collective action. From holding corporations and billionaires accountable for their role in driving up prices to advocating for affordable housing solutions that benefit the many, not the few, we must work together to redefine what home means and who gets to have one. We need to think about shared spaces, community gardens, and sustainable building practices—ways to make sure everyone has a place to live that is affordable, safe, and rooted in community values.

Through ongoing discussions, both on this page and in the blog section, we will continue to explore ideas, share solutions, and work toward a future where housing is once again recognized as a human right for everyone.

Together, we can make a difference. We can create a world where everyone has a home.