What are the protections for the right to housing under human rights law?

Under international human rights law, the right to housing is recognized as a fundamental human right essential for human dignity and well-being. The protection of housing rights is enshrined in key international treaties and agreements, which outline the obligations of governments to ensure access to adequate housing for all individuals.

International Treaties and Agreements

One of the main instruments safeguarding the right to housing is the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. Article 11 of the Covenant recognizes the right of everyone to an adequate standard of living, including adequate housing, and obliges states parties to take steps to ensure the progressive realization of this right.

Obligations of Governments

Governments have an obligation to ensure that adequate housing is accessible and affordable for all individuals, regardless of their economic or social status. This includes addressing homelessness, providing support for vulnerable groups, and combating discrimination in housing.

Key Mechanisms

The Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights monitors the implementation of the right to housing at the national level, while the Special Rapporteur on Adequate Housing conducts country visits, reports on housing issues, and promotes the right to housing globally.

Through these mechanisms and international law, the protection of the right to housing is strengthened, emphasizing the importance of ensuring access to adequate housing for all individuals as a basic human right.