The ECSR - the Council of Europe’s body responsible for the implementation of the European Social Charter - has ruled that France is not in conformity with Article 31 of the Charter on six grounds. These include the poor implementation of, or insufficient progress on, existing measures relating to:
inadequate housing conditions
preventing evictions
reducing homelessness
providing social housing aimed at the most deprived
social housing allocation
discrimination against Travellers
In particular, the ECSR found that “measures currently in place to reduce the number of homeless are insufficient, both in quantitative and qualitative terms”.
In November 2006 the European Federation of National Organisations working with the Homeless, FEANTSA, lodged a collective complaint. It argued that despite ambitious laws and policies, France had failed to effectively implement the right to housing for all, especially for the most vulnerable. Although housing rights are enshrined in widely ratified international instruments and in several European States national laws, their concrete implementation remains inadequate in many countries.
FEANTSA considers the ruling of the ECSR to be important as it addresses and clarifies a number of essential elements concerning State obligations to the promotion and implementation of the right to housing. It will certainly contribute to the building of international standards.
FEANTSA also acknowledges that since November 2006, France has adopted a number of encouraging initiatives, including a law on the enforceable right to housing (DALO). However, further action and progress are crucial to ensure that everyone’s right to housing is fully and effectively implemented.
“FEANTSA welcomes this landmark ruling and will use this tool to encourage other European States to guarantee the right to housing to everyone. Policies should first and foremost target the most vulnerable.” Said Freek Spinnewijn (Director of FEANTSA).
Background information on FEANTSA:
FEANTSA is the European Federation of National Organisations working with the Homeless. Established in 1989,
FEANTSA today represents more than 100 organisations working with people experiencing homelessness in about 30 European countries which provide a wide range of services to people experiencing homelessness, including housing, health and employment support.
More information is available at our website
For further information:
Right to Housing - Collective complaint FEANTSA vs. France
Report of the European Committee of Social Rights to the Committee of Ministers - 5 June 2008
FEANTSA’s complaint, response by the French Government and additional elements by FEANTSA
EPHA related articles:
WHO/Europe suggest improvements for regulations on housing and health
FEANTSA statement on EU State aid rules and social housing
FEANTSA calls on policy makers to end street homelessness by 2010
Improving health needs of homeless people
Spotlight on the European Federation of National Organisations Working with the Homeless (FEANTSA)
FEANTSA supports a parliamentary initiative to end street homelessness
