The real estate sector wields significant political influence, spending substantial amounts to lobby for legislation that maintains favourable policies. This political clout ensures that regulations often prioritize corporate profits over individual homeownership, exacerbating the housing affordability crisis. Such prioritization can be seen as a form of economic and social injustice, neglecting the basic human right to adequate housing and imposing severe burdens on future generations.

The acceptance of economic factors over human considerations in housing policies is a glaring issue. International human rights standards, such as those set by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, affirm that everyone has the right to adequate housing. Yet, current practices often fall short, favoring financial interests over the wellbeing of individuals and communities.

The neglect of improving housing standards due to economic considerations is an abusive practice towards future generations. This systemic issue mirrors historical instances where societies prioritized wealth accumulation over human dignity and welfare.

In Canada we wear a poppy sometimes to remind ourselves.

Historical Context: The Venetian Method of Political Accountability

Venetian society, particularly during the Renaissance, had a unique and severe way of dealing with corrupt politicians. Venice was renowned for its strict and often brutal justice system, particularly when it came to those in power. One of the most infamous methods of dealing with corrupt or treasonous politicians was to imprison them on the roof of the Doge’s Palace, exposing them to the elements until they either jumped to their deaths or succumbed to exposure. This extreme form of punishment was intended to serve as a deterrent against corruption and betrayal, illustrating the lengths to which the society would go to maintain political integrity and accountability.

While modern society has come a long way from such brutal methods, it is crucial to remember the responsibility that comes with our advancements. The historical example of Venice serves as a stark reminder of the importance of political accountability and integrity. In contemporary contexts, this translates to ensuring that policies and practices, particularly in housing, prioritize human rights and the welfare of future generations over short-term economic gains.

Given the severity of these practices, there is a compelling argument for investigation by an International Human Rights Tribunal. Such an investigation would scrutinize the policies and actions that perpetuate housing insecurity and economic inequality. It would also address the failure to uphold human rights standards, emphasizing the need to prioritize human factors in housing policy development and implementation.

To rectify these abuses, it is crucial to shift the focus from corporate profits to human rights. Comprehensive policy reforms and international oversight are necessary to ensure that housing policies support the fundamental right to adequate housing for all, particularly for future generations. This shift is essential to foster a more equitable and just society, where economic growth does not come at the expense of human dignity and security.

The housing crisis is a critical issue that intersects with property rights, corporate control, and fundamental human rights.

This paper aims to explore the business models of corporate real estate entities, political complicity through favourable tax policies, and the broader socio-economic implications of a market increasingly geared towards renting. Additionally, it provides avenues for future research and speculative thought, particularly in the context of legal and policy reforms necessary to address these challenges.

Corporate entities such as real estate investment trusts (REITs) and private equity firms have explicitly articulated their strategies to maximize rental incomes by acquiring large portfolios of single-family homes. This business model prioritizes steady revenue streams and capital appreciation, often at the expense of affordable homeownership options for individuals who cannot afford to pay Tax Incentives and the cost of the Loopholes

Government policies frequently offer tax breaks and incentives that favour large property investors. The Mortgage Interest Deduction in the U.S. and similar policies in other countries provide significant financial advantages to those who own multiple properties. Additionally, depreciation benefits allow investors to reduce taxable income, thereby enhancing their profitability.

The real estate sector is a powerful lobbying force, spending substantial amounts to influence legislation. This political influence ensures the continuation of favorable policies, which exacerbate the housing affordability crisis by prioritizing corporate profits over individual homeownership Statements & Human Rights and Housing tomfoolery that is Abusive towards future generations. It should be investigated at International Human Rights Tribunal. The issue is with the acceptance of not improving the standards due to economic factors over human factors. It’s why the venitisns disposed of their own the way they did.

Housing is recognized as a fundamental human right by international agreements such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights. These documents emphasize the right to adequate housing as part of the right to an adequate standard of living.

However, the commodification of housing in capitalist economies often undermines this principle, leading to widespread housing insecurity in countries like Canada where they have frameworks (with low citizen participation or access or credibility) that theoretically support the right to housing, such as Canada’s National Housing Strategy Act of 2019. However, the practical implementation of these rights is often hampered by market dynamics and insufficient social housing policies.

Socioeconomic Impacts

The dominance of corporate entities in the housing market exacerbates the generational wealth gap. Younger generations, facing high property prices and student debt, find it increasingly difficult to afford homes. This dynamic deepens economic inequality and restricts social mobility

High housing costs force many to spend a disproportionate amount of their income on rent, leaving little for savings or other necessities. This situation perpetuates poverty and increases reliance on social services, further straining public resources and slowing economic growth

To address the housing crisis, significant policy reforms are necessary. lots of research might include:

tax policies to examine benefits for large property owners and speculate increase support for primary dwellers and affordable housing initiatives that are non rental in nature.

Future research could investigate the long-term impacts of corporate ownership on housing affordability and market stability. Comparative studies between markets with high levels of corporate ownership and those with more individual ownership could provide insights into the effectiveness of various regulatory approaches.

Analyzing the effectiveness of policy interventions such as inclusionary zoning, rent control, and tax reforms in different contexts could help identify best practices. Longitudinal studies tracking the impact of these policies on housing affordability and economic inequality would be particularly valuable.

Exploring the role of community organizations and grassroots movements in advocating for housing justice and implementing solutions like CLTs could provide practical insights into how communities can take control of their housing futures.

The housing crisis highlights the critical need to balance property rights with human rights and address the disproportionate influence of corporate interests in the housing market. Ensuring access to affordable housing requires comprehensive policy reforms, innovative housing models, and strong community advocacy.

By reimagining and restructuring the systems that govern property and housing, we can work towards a society where housing is recognized and treated as a fundamental human right.