THE HOME AS A NECESSARY FACTOR FOR HUMAN DEVELOPMENT

 Comprehensive development of individuals is the result of multiple factors, of which having access to their own home is one. A house is more than just a simple roof over one’s head. It is the place where families live their lives, building up their deepest identities and their relationships with others.

Adequate housing in a clean habitat, contributes towards establishment, protection; intimacy; personal and community fulfilment. It also offers safety and the chance of maintaining acceptable levels of sanitation and education.

Picture: Arroyo Claro.

IN OUR COUNTRY

Our National Constitution as well as International agreements establish that having access to a home is considered a legitimate human right. However, public State policies do not provide the means to fulfill this right, and thus the issue falls into the hands of market laws that make it impossible for low-income families to have access to their own home.

Housing deficit is seen not only in the lack of houses but also in the enormous amount of houses that are below standard. In Argentina, this is the case in over 6 million homes. This scenario becomes even more serious if we take into account that 70% of this deficit occurs among the population with the lowest income (approximately 35% of the population).

Picture: Figueroa Family