Proposal by the city councilor of the Socialist Party of Iceland regarding a tenants' advocacy fund

Reykjavík City Council19 January 2021It is proposed that a portion of the rent paid by tenants of Félagsbústaðir goes to advocacy organizationsof the tenants. It has been noted that it can be difficult for tenants to get their issues through, and their experience is that they are not always listened to. For example, maintenance issues are not attended to as they should be. Therefore, it is proposed that 0.7% of the monthly rent payments of tenants at Félagsbústaðir goes to tenants' advocacy organizations at Félagsbústaðir. This way, it can facilitate the advocacy organizations in managing communication and organizing the demands that need to be presented to Félagsbústaðir.The arrangement is similar to what takes place in the labor market, where a portion of workers' wages goes to paying union fees. It can be difficult for a tenant on their own to present their issues, but such is easier in an association. By enabling tenants to make their voice heard, the interests of Félagsbústaðir are also being secured in the long term. Since Félagsbústaðir anticipate the aforementioned income, it is proposed that Reykjavík City compensates Félagsbústaðir for the loss and that it be taken from the unforeseen item.In the labor market, a portion of workers' wages goes to trade unions that provide certain services.The association there, among other things, looks after social rights and assists in case of disputes. The organizationhas worked well where the interests of groups are protected through such associations. It is proposed that a similararrangement be ensured for tenants' advocacy organizations at Félagsbústaðir in order to strengthenthe resources available to tenants. Individuals who have the same interests toprotect are stronger together, and especially when there is a power imbalance between an individual withlow income and even in a vulnerable social position, against a rental company.Blokkin, an association of tenants at Félagsbústaðir, was founded with the aim of raisingawareness of the conditions and experiences of those who rent from Félagsbústaðir hf. Parties on the waiting listfor social housing with the city are also welcome to the association. This is an importantplatform that receives various sensitive issues, and it is important to strengthen the association toincrease the welfare of tenants at Félagsbústaðir. In order to carry out the work involved in reaching out totenants, maintaining a discussion forum, and engaging in advocacy, all associations need financial support. Therefore, it is proposed that this procedure be implemented regarding tenants atFélagsbústaðir.