A new horizon for housing in Barcelona
The acquisition of Casa Orsola by Barcelona City Council represents a significant step in the fight against evictions. This action not only implies the preservation of the rights of residents, but also highlights the importance of establishing measures that protect housing as a fundamental right.
The dilemma of immediate solutions
Although the purchase of the property is celebrated as a victory, it is clear that this solution is only a temporary fix. The City Council has disbursed four million euros to a speculative owner, without implementing structural changes that address the roots of the housing problem in the city.
Ignored alternatives
There were several ways to avoid the eviction of Casa Orsola, including the renewal of contracts with increases regulated by the CPI, or even forced expropriation, which would have generated a debate about fair compensation for the owners. However, the final choice reflects a desire to maintain the status quo of the real estate market.
The potential of housing cooperatives
In the current context, housing cooperatives emerge as a viable solution for Casa Orsola. In Catalonia, the growth of cooperative projects has been remarkable, with more than 400 homes in operation and a projected increase of 770 units in the coming years. This modality allows communities to manage their homes, freeing themselves from speculation.
A neighborhood management model
The residents of Casa Orsola could have formed a cooperative that would guarantee their stability and autonomy, without depending on the decisions of an owner. With the help of entities like Sostre Cívic, they could have accessed public and private financing, promoting a fairer and more sustainable housing system.
International inspiration and local proposals
Examples from cities like Copenhagen show that tenants can purchase their buildings and turn them into cooperatives with the support of the administration. This has allowed a third of the housing stock to be cooperative, an alternative that Barcelona could consider to address the housing crisis.
Building a sustainable future
Cooperative housing is not only a response to speculation, but also a way to build community and resilience. At a time when climate and social crises are increasingly evident, it is necessary for citizens to mobilize not only through protests, but also through constructive proposals that promote decent and accessible housing.