The International Union of Tenants (IUT) expresses its strong support for its member organisation, the Association of Tenants of the Czech Republic (SON ČR), and for the vital role of independent tenant representation in the country.
For more than 35 years, SON ČR has been an essential voice for tenants, contributing expertise to public debate, legislative processes, and policy development. Its work has helped ensure that the perspectives and rights of tenants are represented in a housing system that affects millions of people.
Today, this long-standing organisation is facing an unprecedented and existential challenge due to the sudden withdrawal of public support. At the same time, broader changes in housing policy risk weakening both tenant protections and the role of civil society organisations in the Czech Republic.
This situation is particularly concerning given the current housing context. Approximately one quarter of the Czech population — around 2.5 million people — live in rental housing, often under increasingly insecure conditions, including short-term contracts and rising costs. In such an environment, strong, independent tenant representation is not only important — it is essential for social stability, fairness, and well-functioning housing markets.
The IUT also notes a growing recognition at the European level of the importance of housing policy and the contribution of civil society organisations to economic resilience and social cohesion. Against this backdrop, recent developments in the Czech Republic risk moving in the opposite direction.
In a letter (attached) addressed to Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, the IUT calls for:
- Immediate measures to ensure the continued functioning of SON ČR and other housing civil society organisations;
- Stronger support for independent tenant representation;
- Housing policies that promote affordability, security, and long-term stability.
The IUT stands in solidarity with SON ČR and all Czech tenants. Ensuring that tenants have a strong and independent voice is a cornerstone of democratic and balanced housing systems across Europe.
Marie Linder
President
International Union of Tenants (IUT)
