Featuring a total of 53 proposals, the Council of Architecture and Urbanism of Brazil and the Institute of Architects of Brazil launched the “Open Letter to Candidates in the 2018 Elections for the Right to the City.” The issue of social housing is one of the highlights of the proposed “Solidary and Inclusive Urban Planning.” For these organizations, it is crucial to establish a housing policy consisting of diverse solutions rather than a single model based on the construction of massive housing complexes, typically on the outskirts of cities, as is currently the case.
Law 11,888/2008, which marks its tenth anniversary in December, is cited by CAU/BR and IAB as an example of legislation that needs to be effectively implemented, given how little it has been utilized. This law provides free technical assistance for low-income populations to renovate or build their homes. This assistance would be provided by municipal governments which, under the law, would receive federal funding allocated for this purpose and managed by the National Fund for Social Interest Housing (FNHIS). In addition to securing the right to housing, technical assistance would prevent the occupation of high-risk and environmentally sensitive areas, upgrading their surroundings.
HOUSING SOLUTIONS
One solution could be social leasing, a common practice in other countries and already trialed in São Paulo. This alternative could “guarantee that low-income populations remain in established urban areas,” at a more affordable cost to occupants. Implementing this could involve instruments that enforce the social function of property—as mandated by the Constitution and regulated by the 2001 City Statute—to encourage the use of vacant buildings or land in central areas, including government-owned properties.
Furthermore, the organizations call for massive investments in urban infrastructure and public and social services on the city outskirts, improving the quality of life for residents. Resuming slum upgrading programs and expanding land tenure regularization, coupled with neighborhood improvements, are other proposals in the Letter.
Another recommendation is to integrate housing into social assistance policies to serve vulnerable citizens, including those experiencing homelessness.
Via CAU/BR
This article was written by CAU/BR. The translation is powered by AI.
