Women’s Equal Rights to Land and Housing

This research report examines women’s access to land and housing rights in informal settlements in South Africa (PDF, 7.31MB), with the aim of strengthening gender-responsive laws, policies, and advocacy strategies. Produced by the Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa (SERI) in partnership with grassroots organisations, it analyses how systemic inequalities and forms of structural, infrastructural, and environmental violence intersect with gender inequality to limit women’s access to basic services, livelihoods, political participation, and tenure security. Using a women’s equality lens, the report combines legal and policy analysis with findings from community consultations and expert interviews in Cato Crest (eThekwini), Slovo Park (Johannesburg), and Johannesburg’s inner-city buildings. It highlights the gender-specific challenges women face, including gender-based violence, and documents the strategies they use to navigate these barriers. The report concludes with recommendations for gender-responsive informal settlement development to support inclusive policy reform and protect and advance women’s land and housing rights.

Abstract based on original source.