Suche
Mein Konto
Activists occupy empty building in Bremen: demand for housing!
In Bremen, the group “Shaping Vacancy” occupies an empty building and demands living space as a basic right.
Activists occupy empty building in Bremen: demand for housing!
It's bubbling in Bremen's Neustadt! Since Saturday lunchtime, the group “Shaping Vacancies” has occupied an empty building to draw attention to the ongoing housing shortage. Around 75 people have gathered outside the building, but the exact number of squatters inside remains unclear. The occupied walls are decorated with eye-catching banners proclaiming slogans such as “Homes to those who need them” and “Occupied.” The window panes were also temporarily covered with newspaper to give the activists a veneer of protest. Tagesschau reports that…
The dramatic condition of the building, which has been empty since 2002, is viewed by activists as a disgrace. From their point of view, the prevailing housing situation in Germany leads to rising rents and the associated poverty and despair. The demands are clear: In addition to the immediate use of empty buildings, they also demand the recognition of living space as a fundamental right. The initiative is also committed to creating housing options for families and shared apartments in the empty rooms, as well as the establishment of a youth club and a cultural center on the ground floor , according to n-tv.
Growing problem of housing shortage
The background to the occupation is alarming. According to a study commissioned by the “Social Living” association, there is currently a shortage of around 550,000 apartments in Germany. Housing costs have exploded, especially in large cities: between 2010 and 2022, average re-letting rents rose by almost 70%. In 2023, 52% of people in Germany were already living in rent , according to the Federal Agency for Civic Education.
This dramatic situation is causing more and more people to actively stand up for their rights. In Bremer Neustadt and elsewhere, such actions are becoming more and more the norm, as many of those affected question the scarce living space resources and oppose the large real estate companies and the self-interest of the owners. “Shaping Vacancies” is a loose association of activists that sharply criticizes owners' ignorance of housing needs.
The peaceful situation
Despite the tensions between occupiers and owners, the police have so far been on site and describe the situation as peaceful. The group's commitment could certainly be seen as a sign that not only responds to the problem of vacancies, but also to a broader housing crisis that affects many people. Too many apartments are empty, while at the same time rents are constantly rising and the ability of many households to pay is being overwhelmed.
The current events in Bremen not only show the desire for more living space, but also the urgent need to finally take the issue seriously. The signs of the times must be recognized - because the clock is ticking for many who are looking for a place to live.