The right to adequate housing is a fundamental human right recognized by international law. It is enshrined in various international and regional human rights instruments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR).

The right to adequate housing means that everyone has the right to live in security, peace, and dignity, with access to a safe, habitable, and affordable place to live. It goes beyond just having a physical shelter and encompasses various aspects such as:

Habitability: Adequate housing must provide a safe and healthy living environment, including access to clean water, sanitation, and adequate space.

Accessibility: Housing should be affordable and accessible to all without discrimination, ensuring that vulnerable and marginalized groups have equal access to housing.

Security of Tenure: Individuals should have legal protection against forced eviction and arbitrary displacement from their homes.

Location: Adequate housing should be located in areas that offer access to basic services, jobs, education, and healthcare facilities.

Cultural Adequacy: Housing should respect the cultural identity and practices of its residents.

Participation: People should have the right to participate in decisions related to housing policies and development that affect their communities.

While the right to adequate housing is recognized internationally, its realization often faces challenges due to economic, social, and political factors. Inadequate housing conditions, homelessness, and lack of affordable housing continue to be significant issues in many parts of the world.

States have an obligation to take appropriate measures to progressively achieve the full realization of the right to adequate housing. This means they should work towards improving housing conditions, promoting access to affordable housing, and preventing homelessness. International cooperation and assistance may also be necessary to support countries facing challenges in realizing this right.

It is essential to advocate for the right to adequate housing and hold governments accountable for fulfilling their obligations to ensure that all individuals can enjoy this basic human right.