Global Social Housing Survey

In June 2024, the APA International Division received a grant of $3,000 from APA Divisions Council to conduct a global social housing survey.  This research aims to produce a comparative analysis of social housing models in selected countries. By examining the structure, implementation, and outcomes of these programs, the study seeks to provide insights into effective social housing practices and inform future policy development.

The project team focuses on five countries: Argentina, Indonesia, Mexico, Uganda, and Vietnam. The survey researchers will use simple language and succinct narratives to answer the following questions: 

Country Background

• How does the country define and/or describe “social housing”? (can be more than 1 definition)

• What is the socio-economic and environmental context influencing housing affordability and availability in the country?

• What are the primary housing challenges faced by the population?

• How does the general public perceive social housing in terms of its role in addressing housing affordability and quality of life?

• What are the primary issues or goals that “social housing” aspires to address? 

Government/Non-Profit Organizations Framework

• Which government agencies and non-profit organizations are primarily responsible for housing and social housing policies and programs in the country?

• What are the key housing policies and regulations in place to support those programs in particular?

• Please describe the main social housing programs implemented by these agencies and organizations.

• How is social housing funded? How does it compare to other government services? 

Policy Implementation 

• What are considered to be successful social housing initiatives or policies in the country? Why?

• What lessons have been learned from unsuccessful or challenging social housing programs?

• What has been the impact of social housing in the country, including its impact on market-oriented housing, social equity, and urban development?  

Social Housing Unit

• What do common social housing units look like? What are the typical characteristics of social housing units in terms of size, amenities, and energy efficiency?

• Which population groups are primarily targeted by social housing programs?

• How do location of the housing, transportation options and land use patterns influence the location and accessibility of social housing units? 

Community

• What role do communities play in the planning, development, and management of social housing?

• In general, what is the perceived future of social housing in the context of changing demographics and urbanization. 

The Planner's Role 

• What is the role of urban planners or related professionals in shaping housing policies, strategies, and implementation?

• What are the primary challenges faced by housing planners and related professionals in their work?

The survey results are expected in the spring of 2025.