Quo vadis Wohnungspolitik?

Herausforderungen und Antworten am Fallbeispiel Wiens

Abstract

Due to the large share of social housing, the high quality and affordability of housing, Vienna's housing policy often is considered as a role model. However, housing in Vienna is not affordable for everyone. Vulnerable groups often are stuck to the most expensive market segment, the private rent with temporary contracts. Also, a decrease in the socio-spatial mix can be observed. Two causes are identified for this development: on the one hand, the financialisation of the housing market, which has led to a dynamic development of demand and prices, and on the other hand, a conflict of goals between the utilitarian and the social justice concept within housing policy. The conclusion reads "Polis semper reformanda est": policy always needs to adapt. It is not enough to defend the valuable heritage of a large de-commodified housing sector. Additionally, new alliances need to be formed to reverse the re-interpretation of Housing from a financial product back to a basic need, and to make housing accessible and affordable for all.