A housing crisis without solutions
In Italy, more than 300,000 families are on the waiting list for public housing, underscoring a worsening housing crisis. According to an Unimpresa report, there are 12.6 unresolved applications per 1,000 families on average. The issue is particularly acute in Lombardy, with 67,176 pending requests, and Bolzano, which reports 22.4 applications per 1,000 families. In contrast, smaller regions like Valle d’Aosta and Molise show lower figures, with just 2.7 and 4.3 requests per 1,000 households, respectively.
An outdated housing stock
Local municipalities own 53.4% of social housing, followed by territorial ERP entities, managing 42.4%. However, nearly half the public housing stock was built before 1980, and recent investment has been negligible. Post-2010, only 2.2% of new units have been added, reflecting a sharp decline in public spending on housing.
Regional disparities
The gap between northern and southern Italy is stark. Southern regions, despite an 1980s construction boom, now struggle with aging and deteriorating housing stock. Urban areas house 26% of social housing, yet degradation impacts both cities and suburban zones. The lack of local resources further exacerbates the issue, calling for an overhaul of governance to enhance efficiency and share responsibilities.
Governance challenges
The reliance on municipalities, which often lack the resources to manage such a large housing portfolio, raises concerns about system effectiveness. According to Unimpresa’s president Giovanna Ferrara, a strategic overhaul is necessary to better balance responsibilities among local and national institutions.
Conclusion
Italy’s social housing crisis demands urgent structural reforms and broader institutional involvement. What’s your take on this issue? Share your thoughts in the form below!
