Housing Activity

To live in a place, and to have established one’s space with peace, security and dignity is neither a luxury, a privilege or just the ‘good fortune’ of those who can afford a decent home. The importance of adequate housing for personal security, privacy, health, safety, protection from the elements and shared humanity, has led us to recognize that adequate housing is a basic human need.

Tell the class that today they are going to have a debate about adequate housing as a basic human right. Half of the class will support this idea and the other half will be against the idea that adequate housing is a basic human right.

Have the students number off by two and divide the class into two groups. Provide them with the following information to help them form their arguments. Explain to the students that you will give them 7 minutes to prepare for the debate.

Debate Information:

The very existence of housing rights as human rights has been subject of controversy and dispute. There are several key issues listed below. Debate the following ideas: The right to an adequate standard of living, including food, clothing and housing should exist under international law. Individuals should be guaranteed adequate housing no matter what the circumstance. Decent housing should be provided by the government. Housing is not only just having a physical place called "home", but also having a place of one’s own that is safe, private, and healthy.