Decent Housing .. a basic human right

 

Al-Rakeezeh – Exclusive

Everyone deserves decent housing, it’s a basic human right & need. No one should have to worry about whether they will have a roof over their head or a safe place to sleep at night.

Decent housing standards

The term “decent house” typically refers to a dwelling that meets certain basic standards of safety, habitability, and comfort. While the exact definition may vary depending on cultural, regional, or legal factors, a decent house generally includes the following characteristics:

1. Structural Integrity: The house should be well-built and in good structural condition, free from significant damage or hazards that could endanger its occupants.
2. Adequate Size: The house should be of sufficient size to accommodate its occupants comfortably, with enough rooms and living space for their needs.
3. Basic Amenities: It should have access to essential utilities such as electricity, clean water, and heating or cooling systems, depending on the climate.
4. Sanitation: There should be proper sanitation facilities, including functional bathrooms and a safe and hygienic sewage system.
5. Safe Wiring and Plumbing: Electrical and plumbing systems should be installed and maintained safely to prevent accidents and health risks.
6. Proper Ventilation and Lighting: The house should have adequate natural light and proper ventilation to ensure a healthy and comfortable living environment.
7. Weatherproofing: The house should be constructed in a way that protects its occupants from the elements, such as rain, wind, and extreme temperatures.
8. Accessibility: Ideally, the house should be designed to accommodate people with disabilities and be easily accessible to all residents.
9. Legal Compliance: The construction and design of the house should meet local building codes and regulations.
10. Location: The house should be situated in a safe and relatively convenient location, providing access to essential services, public transport, schools, and healthcare facilities.

Decent Housing is a basic Human right

The concept of a decent house is essential in discussions about housing rights, social housing policies, and ensuring that everyone has access to adequate living conditions. Different countries and organizations may have specific guidelines and definitions for what constitutes a decent house, but the overarching goal is to ensure that housing is safe, secure, and suitable for human habitation.

access to decent housing is widely recognized as a fundamental human right. The right to adequate housing is enshrined in various international human rights instruments, including:

• Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR):

Article 25(1) of the UDHR states that “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.”

• International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (ICESCR):

Article 11 of the ICESCR specifically recognizes “the right of everyone to an adequate standard of living for himself and his family, including adequate food, clothing, and housing.”

• Regional Human Rights Treaties:

Various regional human rights treaties, such as the European Social Charter and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, also include provisions that recognize the right to housing.

Government duties in decent housing

Recognizing housing as a fundamental human right means governments should take measures to ensure that all individuals and families have access to adequate housing. This includes adopting policies and programs to address homelessness, housing affordability, and housing quality. as well as preventing forced evictions and providing assistance to those in need.

However, it is important to note that while the right to adequate housing is recognized in international law, its implementation and realization can vary significantly across different countries and regions. Economic, social, and political factors can influence how effectively this right is protected and fulfilled in practice. Advocacy and continued efforts are necessary to ensure that housing rights are upheld for everyone, regardless of their socio-economic status.

Consequences of indecent housing

Living in an indecent house can have various negative social consequences for individuals and communities. Here are some of the potential social implications:

1. Health and Well-being: Indecent housing can lead to poor living conditions, such as dampness, mold, inadequate heating or cooling, and lack of proper sanitation. These conditions can contribute to health problems like respiratory issues, allergies, and other illnesses, affecting the well-being of the residents.
2. Education: Living in substandard housing may impact children’s ability to learn and concentrate. Overcrowded or unsafe living conditions can create stress and distractions, making it challenging for children to focus on their studies.
3. Poverty and Inequality: In many cases, individuals or families living in indecent housing are more likely to be from low-income backgrounds. Lack of access to decent housing can perpetuate cycles of poverty and exacerbate existing social inequalities.
4. Social Stigma: People living in inadequate housing may experience social stigma or discrimination due to their living conditions. This can affect their self-esteem, mental health, and overall social integration.
5. Social Isolation: Indecent housing may be located in areas with limited access to essential services and amenities. This isolation can lead to reduced social interaction and community engagement.
6. Crime and Safety: Areas with a concentration of indecent housing may experience higher crime rates and safety concerns, leading to a decreased sense of security among residents.
7. Family Stability: Unstable and inadequate housing conditions can put stress on families, affecting relationships and overall family stability.
8. Homelessness: Extreme cases of indecent housing can result in homelessness, leading to a host of other social problems for individuals and families.
9. Displacement and Forced Migration: In some cases, individuals may be forced to leave their homes due to unsafe or unhealthy conditions, contributing to forced migration and displacement.
10. Impact on Local Communities: Concentrations of indecent housing can hurt local communities’ overall health and vitality, affecting property values and community development.

Summary

Addressing indecent housing and ensuring access to decent housing is not only a matter of fulfilling a basic human right but is also vital for promoting social well-being, reducing inequality, and building stronger, healthier communities. Governments, policymakers, and organizations must work to implement housing policies and programs that prioritize the provision of safe and affordable housing for all.

It’s time for society to prioritize affordable housing for all, and ensure that everyone has access to a secure and comfortable living space. We can make this happen if we work together towards this goal. It’s time to take action and make decent housing a reality for everyone.