Catalonia homelessness strategy is set for a major overhaul, with the regional government proposing a unified census and stronger eviction prevention measures.
The Generalitat’s Committee of Experts for Social Transformation and Innovation has called for these actions to combat the rising number of people living on the streets.
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According to their report, the increase in homelessness is “closely linked to the housing crisis.”
Catalonia Homelessness Strategy Focuses on Housing Crisis
Official data reveals a stark connection between housing loss and street living. More than 60% of people experiencing homelessness in Catalonia ended up there due to housing problems. Consequently, 32% of cases originate from evictions, 16% from non-renewal of rental contracts, and 14% from inability to pay rent. The Social Rights and Inclusion councillor, Mònica Martínez Bravo, has therefore defended the need to be more “effective” in preventing housing loss.
Furthermore, the committee’s conclusions will be incorporated into a homelessness bill currently being processed in the Parliament. “Although it is a municipal competence, it concerns all of society,” Martínez Bravo stated. “The Generalitat is committed to providing support and coordinating a response to one of the country’s main challenges.”
Among the key proposals is the creation of a single census to accurately quantify the homeless population across Catalonia. Additionally, the plan includes implementing a 24-hour device to ensure no person sleeps on the street for a second night. The strategy also proposes a specific complementary benefit for housing access assistance, compatible with existing minimum income schemes.
Meanwhile, the committee suggests establishing an autonomous office to coordinate data and define strategies. According to recent reports on municipal challenges, effective coordination between different levels of government remains crucial for complex social issues.
The demographic data presents its own challenges. Catalan administration figures show 58% of homeless people are men, but the proportion of women has risen dramatically from 12% to 42% over a decade. Moreover, 46% hold European nationality, with 32% coming from other European countries, highlighting the transnational nature of the issue.
This comprehensive Catalonia homelessness strategy represents a significant shift towards prevention and accurate data collection. The proposed measures aim to address the root causes of street living, particularly the region’s acute housing crisis. The government’s commitment to this coordinated approach suggests a renewed focus on one of Catalonia’s most pressing social challenges.
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