The ComeHoME research project examines access to decent and affordable housing for people with a migrant background in Thessaloniki, Turin, and Malta.
Based on 800 questionnaires, 12 focus groups, and 30 interviews, the study highlights the channels through which migrants seek housing, the barriers they face, and the resilience strategies they adopt. SolidarityNow participated in the research by carrying out data collection.
Findings for Thessaloniki
- 75% of respondents reported experiencing discrimination when searching for housing – the highest percentage among the three cities (Turin: 54%, Malta: 39%).
- Main reason for discrimination: ethnic origin (95% of those facing discrimination cited migration status, nationality, language, and skin color as key factors).
- African migrants were the most affected (86%), followed by Asians (77%) and Europeans (62%).
- Financial barriers posed challenges for 63% of respondents, while 41% reported language barriers.
- Private landlords were the main source of discrimination, whereas the role of real estate agencies was more complex. Most migrants relied on informal social networks (within migrant communities and personal contacts) to find housing, as awareness of legal rights and rental subsidies was low (only 21% were aware of available legal remedies).
- Mediated housing programs had a positive impact, but their temporary nature limited their long-term effectiveness.
Conclusions and Recommendations
- Discrimination and financial difficulties make securing housing particularly challenging for migrants in Thessaloniki.
- The state does not provide sufficient support, leaving civil society organizations to fill the gap with limited resources.
- Stronger policies are needed to improve housing access, including:
– Addressing discrimination through stricter legislation and enforcement mechanisms.
– Raising awareness among migrants about their rights.
– Expanding public and social housing programs for long-term solutions.