# Catalonia and the Netherlands: Alternative models to address the housing crisis

The housing crisis hits Europe with increased prices and fixed wages. In Greece the problem is exacerbated by the lack of new buildings and short term leases. In Catalonia an alternative model emerges: public-private partnership for economic, low-emission housing. The Cohabitac network manages 5,000 affordable homes, such as Adela Barquín with a rent of 500 euros versus an average of 1,193 euros in Barcelona. In the Netherlands, 30% of dwellings are social, with a unitary system controlling rents and state benefits for low-paid people.