Squatting – grass roots redistribution of space or theft? This is the subject that Dr. Deanna Dadusc, Lecturer in Criminology at University of Brighton, refers to in her recent article called ‘Squatting: the urban space as a common good’, written for Times Literary Supplement (TLS).
This offers a fascinating insight into her view on the potential impact of the recent criminalisation of squatting and how this change in law could alter public perceptions around the use of urban space and private property.
The article raises questions such as “Is there really is a housing crisis?”, and whether “Urban regeneration has contributed to a social inequality by making some urban spaces inaccessible to those who used to inhabit them?”.
With business investment increasing, ‘local’ people being unable to afford to live in the area, yet vacant properties potentially running into thousands, squatting appeared a viable option for some. However the law has changed and squatting is now illegal.
Whether you are studying criminology or this area of law, this article debates an interesting, ethical angle on squatting.
Read Dr Dadusc’s article here and let us know what you think!
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