The European Committee of Social Rights declared the complaint admissible on December 9, 2020. The complaint is against the Czech Republic (191/2020) and concerns Article 16 of the European Social Charter, which guarantees the right of the family to social, legal, and economic protection. In particular, the Committee deems FEANTSA's complaint admissible under Article 4 of the Protocol, as it is signed by an authorized representative and sufficiently outlines the alleged violation of Article 16 of the 1961 Charter by the Czech Republic. The Committee will now examine the merits of the complaint and determine whether the Czech Republic has violated Article 16 of the Charter. If a violation is found, the committee may issue recommendations to the Czech Republic on how to rectify the situation and bring their policies and practices in line with the Charter's provisions.
On 29 March 2021, the Czech Republic responded to each of these claims by referring to various domestic laws and regulations. For example, it mentioned the Social Housing Concept in the Czech Republic, which aims to provide proper housing for everyone, with a particular emphasis on providing social housing to those who require it. The Czech Republic also evaluated the progress made in achieving the objectives of the Concept and discussed the Social Housing Support (2016) initiative, which was implemented to enhance the social housing system in the country.
On 9 July 2021, FEANTSA has reaffirmed its complaint against the Czech Republic for insufficient support for social housing and limited access to affordable accommodation. They also note rising housing costs, policy deficits, and a small social housing stock. Challenges faced by homeless families, ineffective welfare assistance, discrimination against Roma people, and threats to tenure security are also mentioned.
On 3 September 2021, the Czech Republic wrote that it is implementing various tools to support social housing, including financial incentives and legal frameworks. The Affordable Housing Bill has been delayed due to COVID-19, but a Bill on Public Benefit Housing Companies has been prepared. The government acknowledges challenges but claims to be taking steps to ensure access to housing, including evaluating the implementation of the Roma Integration Strategy and strengthening safeguards against eviction.
English
Jurisdiction:
Article 16 - The right of the family to social, legal and economic protection
Subject:
Right to housing
Country:
