Exploitation in housing

Exploitative rental of accommodation
Exploitation of housing tenants

Incidence

Exploitation in housing is a pervasive issue affecting millions globally, with vulnerable populations such as low-income families, migrants, and minorities disproportionately impacted. Reports from organizations like Human Rights Watch and the UN indicate widespread practices including exorbitant rent, unsafe living conditions, and forced evictions in both developed and developing countries. The problem is exacerbated by housing shortages, weak tenant protections, and speculative real estate markets, making secure and affordable housing increasingly inaccessible.
In 2023, Barcelona, Spain, witnessed a surge in illegal evictions and rent gouging, particularly targeting migrant tenants. Local advocacy groups documented over 1,000 cases, highlighting systemic failures in enforcement of housing rights.