The sustainability of social housing policies in Buenos Aires, Argentina: The importance of social, economic, and institutional considerations

Abstract

This paper analyzes the sustainability of a policy of constructing social housing in situ to accommodate therelocated inhabitants of an informal settlement (Barrio 31) in Buenos Aires. It considers the sustainability of thepolicy itself as well as the sustainability of the new housing built to house relocated residents. It is based on amultidimensional and complex approach to the notion of sustainability, including technical, environmental,institutional, social, and economic dimensions. The study contributes to identify difficulties that jeopardize thesustainability of the resettlement process and the inhabitants’ ability to acquire new housing. The broader lessonsfor achieving success in creating sustainable social housing are discussed.