The Evolution of Housing Policy Models in European Countries. A Theoretical Approach
The Evolution of Housing Policy Models in European Countries. A Theoretical Approach

Summary/Abstract: Purpose: Housing policy is a component of social policy; it attempts to study and assess housing problems and ways of equalising opportunities in access to housing services. The article aims to present the development of housing policy models in Europe to indicate the directions of their changes, and to assess the effects of their implementation. Methods: A systematic review of the literature and a comparative analysis were used to distinguish the most popular housing policy classifications, as well as to systematise knowledge on the drivers of the evolution of housing models. Findings: The study indicates a multitude of classifications of housing policy models. They all have roots in Donnison's original work but differ in nomenclature and complexity resulting from valorisation rules. They reveal the importance of historical, social, cultural, and political conditions in the evolution of housing policy. For achieving the objectives of housing policy, the comprehensive model, in which the state participates in the process of satisfying housing needs, was proved to be more productive. The article is theoretical and does not verify the effectiveness of the presented housing policy models to a greater extent. Research implications: The article highlights the fundamental differences between the main models of housing policy and the mechanism of their evolution. Besides, it presents a critical stance on the concept of housing policy of post-socialist countries, which, due to strongly market-oriented solutions focused mainly on private ownership of housing, has not improved their housing situation significantly.

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