Reassessing Priorities in Housing Policies Programs in Italy. Participatory Approaches to Addressing Inequalities

Periodic events, such as the Jubilee scheduled in Rome for 2025, and tourism initiatives aimed at capitalizing on the immense appeal of Italian destinations, draw substantial numbers of visitors. This influx places considerable pressure on urban infrastructure, particularly on the housing market, creating economic opportunities for host communities but simultaneously exacerbating existing housing challenges for young people, the elderly, migrants, and low-income families. Increased demand for temporary accommodations and real estate speculation have driven up rental prices, making access to housing difficult for those already in precarious situations. To counter the widening housing gap and prevent growing inequalities, it is essential to adopt preventive and mitigative measures through appropriate urban policies, including the expansion of social housing, regulation of short-term rentals, and protections for low-income residents' homes. These approaches would not only enhance the management of real estate dynamics but would also contribute to a meaningful legacy of housing justice and social inclusion. Traditional housing policies, often characterized by a top-down approach, have thus far failed to adequately address the housing crisis, intensifying the extent of social and economic inequalities. However, recent experiments across the country indicate that innovative, participatory solutions can offer more effective responses. Initiatives such as the regulation of innovative forms of collaborative living, which are part of the proposals of the New 2023 housing plan, the implementation tool of the Bologna PUG (Urban General Plan), demonstrate how integrating local communities and adopting bottom-up planning approaches can lead to more equitable housing solutions that foster social justice. For these initiatives to have a lasting impact, it is crucial that they be incorporated into urban planning frameworks and supported by targeted public policies. Effective coordination among institutions, local communities, and the private sector is essential to ensure equitable and dignified long-term access to housing.