IUT: Statement on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine

The International Union of Tenants condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and demand that all Russian forces leave Ukraine immediately. The attack on Ukraine is a flagrant violation of international law and of Ukraine’s territorial integrity as a sovereign and democratic state.

We strongly condemn the war, and advocate for dialogue, peace, and democracy to be re-established immediately.

Democracy, freedom of expression and participation in decision-making are cornerstones in a cohesive, open, and democratic society.

As a tenant organisation we are part of the broader civil society, and we know that only a peaceful and democratic society can fully live up to the human rights, including the right to housing and the right to organise. All these values are acutely threatened by the Russian military aggression against Ukraine.

The war in Ukraine is forcing people out of their homes and millions of refugees are fleeing to neighbouring European countries. This is a historic moment for Europe. The EU has activated the temporary protection directive for the first time to assist people displaced by the war in Ukraine.

The provisions within this directive is based on solidarity, and thus tenants organisations and countries will need to work together in order to meet the challenges of this crisis.

In conjecture with activating the temporary protection directive, it is imperative that the EU should also make funding available to member states to address the crisis. Furthermore, it is crucial that such financial programs are made with respect to national administrative and legislative procedures to be effective.

For the IUT, this essentially translates into the core belief that housing is a universal human right which must be legally enforced in the constitutions and legislation of all countries. Affordable and sound housing is one of the safeguards for peace and security, a fundamental pillar in all democratic societies.