Decent housing and living conditions are the most basic needs of each individual. Gaining secure access to adequate accommodation is often a pre-requisite for exercising many of the fundamental rights which form the foundation of all decent societies, and should be enjoyed by everyone. These include the right of access to education, the right to work, the right to social protection, the right to healthcare, the right to personal privacy and to family life, as well as the right of access to basic services such as water and electricity. To be "homeless" — that is, without access to adequate accommodation — is probably the most serious manifestation of social exclusion. If you are homeless it is almost impossible to realize your potential as an active member of society, such as by getting a job or by raising children. Therefore, ensuring an adequate provision of decent housing is one of the basic foundations for building a society in which everyone can play an active part. In this sense, one can say that access to housing is the principal key to social inclusion.
Journal