Understanding the scope of homelessness worldwide is a complex challenge. The absence of a universally accepted definition of homelessness makes it difficult to gather consistent data and develop effective solutions globally. Recognizing this hurdle, the Institute of Global Homelessness (IGH) took a crucial step forward. They brought together experts from around the world to create a shared understanding of homelessness. This collaborative effort resulted in the IGH Framework, a significant tool for addressing homelessness on a global scale.
Unpacking the IGH Framework and its Definition of Homelessness
The IGH Framework is the outcome of extensive collaboration among researchers, policy experts, and leaders with on-the-ground experience across six continents. At its core, the Framework provides a common definition of homelessness: “lacking access to minimally adequate housing.” This definition is intentionally broad to encompass the diverse realities of homelessness around the world.
The Framework goes further by outlining various housing situations that fall under this definition. It acknowledges that countries and cities can then tailor this definition to their local contexts, choosing which specific housing types to include based on their unique circumstances. This flexibility is vital for accurate measurement and targeted interventions.
For those seeking a deeper dive, the full research paper on the IGH Framework, including its conceptual model and strategies for implementation, is available for download. Additionally, the complete Framework can be accessed online in Habitat International, offering a comprehensive understanding of this groundbreaking work.
The Genesis of the IGH Framework: A Collaborative Effort
To ensure the Framework’s global relevance and applicability, IGH enlisted the expertise of three internationally recognized homelessness authorities: Professors Volker Busch-Geertsema, Dennis Culhane, and Suzanne Fitzpatrick. These experts spearheaded the drafting process and actively sought feedback to shape the Framework.
This initiative wasn’t starting from scratch. A wealth of prior research on homelessness, conducted regionally and globally, provided a strong foundation. Notably, FEANTSA (European Federation of National Organisations Working with the Homeless) and the European Observatory on Homelessness (EOH) had already developed the European Typology of Homelessness and Housing Exclusion (ETHOS). ETHOS effectively categorizes the diverse forms of homelessness across Europe.
Furthermore, researchers Graham Tipple and Suzanne Speak had extensively researched homelessness in developing countries, culminating in their book, The Hidden Millions: Homelessness in Developing Countries. Professors Busch-Geertsema, Culhane, and Fitzpatrick also compiled relevant articles and policy documents from various nations to inform the Framework’s development.
A pivotal moment in the Framework’s creation was a meeting in Chicago where 100 thought leaders from across the globe convened. They shared insights on homelessness in their respective countries, providing crucial input on the draft Framework. Represented nations included Thailand, the Philippines, Russia, Canada, Argentina, Brazil, Australia, Japan, Malaysia, China, Korea, India, and the European Union. Additional feedback was contributed by attendees from numerous other countries, ensuring a truly global perspective.
Presentations from this meeting are publicly accessible on the IGH website, demonstrating the transparent and collaborative nature of the Framework’s development. IGH expresses immense gratitude to all the leaders who generously shared their time and knowledge.
How the IGH Framework Paves the Way to End Homelessness
The IGH Framework’s significance lies in its ability to foster global collaboration and action. Here’s how:
Firstly, a shared vocabulary eliminates ambiguity and facilitates meaningful cross-country dialogue. Previously, discussions at international conferences were often bogged down in definitional debates. The Framework provides a common ground, enabling researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to engage in productive conversations focused on solutions.
Professor Fitzpatrick emphasizes this point: “The reason why we are focused on a common understanding of homelessness is because it is central to having any kind of meaningful dialogue about homelessness—not just amongst researchers but also between policy-makers, practitioners, and others interested in homelessness.”
Secondly, the Framework establishes a foundation for measuring and assessing global homelessness in a consistent manner. Even when countries do measure homelessness, their methods and definitions can vary significantly. The Framework enables countries to measure and compare specific types of homelessness, even with differing overall definitions. Crucially, it also addresses the lack of measurement in many countries, making the issue visible to policymakers and prompting action.
Professor Busch-Geertsema highlights the importance of global estimates: “A global estimate of homelessness… is important for a worldwide initiative to address the problem, and to have numbers. Numbers drive investment.”
Ultimately, by providing a common language and a framework for assessment, the IGH Framework sets the stage for concrete actions aimed at reducing homelessness worldwide.
IGH’s Specific Focus: Street Homelessness and Temporary Shelter
IGH strategically focuses its efforts on addressing specific categories of homelessness within the Framework, primarily categories one and two (a-c). This focus encompasses individuals experiencing street homelessness or residing in temporary crisis shelters.
This targeted approach is driven by several factors. Firstly, street homelessness and temporary shelter are widely recognized as core aspects of “homelessness” across diverse global contexts. Secondly, existing organizations and networks already concentrate on other forms of homelessness, such as slum dwellers, refugees, and internally displaced populations. IGH aims to complement, not duplicate, the work of these vital organizations.
IGH’s focused approach does not diminish the significance of other forms of homelessness. The organization recognizes the urgency of the global refugee crisis and the importance of addressing all facets of homelessness. However, IGH seeks to fill a critical gap by concentrating on the specific needs of those experiencing street homelessness and temporary shelter, where a dedicated global organization was previously lacking. This focused approach allows IGH to work in synergy with other organizations, acknowledging the complex and interconnected nature of homelessness.
Looking Ahead: Implementing the Framework for Change
IGH is committed to supporting policymakers and thought leaders in utilizing the Framework to measure homelessness and drive effective action. The organization is developing toolkits to aid in local homelessness measurement. These toolkits will incorporate questions aligned with the Framework, enabling more precise assessments of the numbers and types of individuals lacking minimally adequate housing.
However, measurement and dialogue are merely the initial steps. IGH’s ultimate goal is to leverage the Framework to establish tangible goals for reducing homelessness. This includes sharing best practices, fostering cross-country learning, and mobilizing global, targeted action. IGH is actively developing plans in these areas and looks forward to sharing them with the global community.
For further information about the Framework or to explore opportunities for involvement, individuals are encouraged to contact IGH directly. The IGH Framework represents a pivotal advancement in the global effort to understand, measure, and ultimately end homelessness.
