Squatter Settlement Information

Squatter settlements exist in urban and rural areas, occupied by persons making low incomes--people unable to afford traditional housing. Settlements of this type have been present for as long as there has been poverty, but the term "squatter settlement" has only been in use for a relatively short time.

Types of Settlments

Squatters generally establish settlements in abandoned buildings and vacant or condemned houses in urban areas. They also settle on tracts of land in rural areas that are not in use.

Problems with Squatter Settlements

The main problems with squatter settlements are safety and health hazards. Abandoned properties aren't regularly inspected for safety conditions, and there is little to no public intervention in utilities or toileting facilities. This yields sanitary issues and poses greater risks of infection and disease within squatter communities.

Solutions for Squatter Settlements

Authorities have attempted to come up with solutions such as offering lease-to-own terms on property, or by evicting squatters unable to come to similar terms. However, as long as there are differences in economic status, there are no quick or simple solutions.

References

• The Global Development Research Center: Defining Squatter Settlements