Housing, populism, and the politics of belonging

Rachael Williamson argues that housing is a central issue for voters across the UK and Europe and that issues that stem from housing crises such as disconnection and distrust in institutions can lead to a rise in support for populist parties. 

Housing has become a highly charged issue in the UK and Europe, transcending its traditional role as a matter of building homes to touch on people’s deeper feelings of fairness, identity, and belonging. The way housing issues are discussed and amplified on social media has become a significant factor in shaping public opinion and influencing the political landscape.

The rise of disconnection

Many people in Britain feel disconnected from their communities and society as a whole. Research by More in Common published last year shows that around half of the population experiences this sense of disconnection, which is not limited to specific age groups or areas. Housing is central to this issue, affecting people’s sense of security and belonging. When housing is unaffordable or feels unfairly allocated, individuals can feel excluded and disconnected. This sense of disconnection is not just a personal issue but has broader societal implications, contributing to the erosion of social cohesion and trust in institutions.

The feeling of being disconnected is often linked to a sense of insecurity and uncertainty about the future. As housing costs rise and affordability becomes a significant challenge, people begin to feel that they are losing control over their lives. This can lead to a sense of powerlessness and frustration, which can be exploited by populist narratives that promise simple solutions to complex problems.

Economic challenges and housing

The economic difficulties faced by many countries have significantly impacted housing. Reduced public spending has put pressure on housing systems, making affordable homes harder to access. This has led to feelings of insecurity and competition for limited resources, with people perceiving that if others gain, they lose out. The economic challenges have also led to a shift in the way people think about housing, from being a fundamental right to a scarce resource that is competed for.

The impact of economic hardship on housing is not just limited to the individual; it has broader societal implications. As housing becomes unaffordable, people are forced to make difficult choices between housing costs and other essential expenses. This can lead to a decline in living standards and a sense of insecurity that can have far-reaching consequences.

Housing and electoral politics

Housing is now a key issue at the ballot box. Research from the Social Market Foundation shows that support for populist parties is linked to local economic and housing conditions. People are more likely to back these parties when they feel left behind by changes and distrust institutions. The issue of housing has become a litmus test for whether people believe the system is working for them.

In Scotland, for example, housing is a key area of concern ahead of the forthcoming parliamentary election. Parties are facing pressure from the left for stronger intervention in the housing market and from the right over perceived impacts on investment and supply. Similarly, in Wales, housing is one of the defining issues ahead of the Senedd elections, with long-standing Labour dominance being challenged by both a nationalist left and a populist right.

The importance of transparency and fairness

Addressing these issues requires more than just making housing affordable; it demands fair and transparent decision-making. When people feel that changes are made without their input or benefit, they are more likely to feel disconnected and disillusioned. The lack of transparency and accountability in housing decision-making can lead to a sense of mistrust and disillusionment with the system.

To build trust and promote a more equitable housing system, policymakers must prioritise transparency, community engagement, and inclusive decision-making. This can involve engaging with local communities in the planning and development process, ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed. It also requires a commitment to fairness and equity in the allocation of housing resources, ensuring that those who need it most are not left behind.

Conclusion

The connection between housing, populism, and people’s sense of belonging is complex and multifaceted. To address these challenges, policymakers must adopt a comprehensive approach that considers the economic, social, and cultural dimensions of housing. By prioritising transparency, community engagement, and inclusive decision-making, policymakers can build trust and promote a more equitable housing system that works for everyone. Ultimately, this requires a fundamental shift in the way we think about housing, from being a commodity to being a fundamental right that is essential to human wellbeing.

By Rachael Williamson, Exec Director of Policy, Communications and External Affairs, Chartered Institute of Housing.