Journal of Co-operative Studies
2024
Peter Alexander Carl Pfatteicher, Olive McCarthy, and Carol Power
The article titled "Housing co-operatives in Germany: 160 years of evolution and resilience," authored by Peter Alexander Carl Pfatteicher, Olive McCarthy, and Carol Power, provides a comprehensive overview of the historical development and enduring strength of housing co-operatives in Germany. Spanning 160 years, this paper highlights how these organizations have navigated through various political, economic, and social changes while continuing to meet the housing needs of their members. Divided into five distinct periods, the paper chronicles the rise of housing co-operatives from their inception, through the turbulent times of World War I and II, and into the post-war era of reconstruction and unification. Each section delves into critical events and their impacts on the principles and values that underpin these co-operatives, illustrating their resilience in the face of adversity. The authors argue that, despite the challenges presented by various crises, housing co-operatives have remained steadfast in their mission, driven by a commitment to self-help and community support. This resilience is particularly pertinent today, as Germany grapples with a housing crisis that threatens to undermine the stability of its communities. The paper also emphasizes the lessons that other countries can glean from Germany's experience in fostering a supportive framework for co-operatives, highlighting the importance of core values in ensuring their longevity and effectiveness. In conclusion, the study underscores the significant role that housing co-operatives play not just in providing shelter, but in cultivating community resilience and social cohesion. As the landscape of housing continues to evolve, the insights gathered from German co-operatives stand as a testament to their enduring relevance and adaptability.
Housing co-operatives in Germany: 160 years of evolution and resilience
Peter Alexander Carl Pfatteicher, Olive McCarthy, and Carol Power
Vol 57 No 1, pp. 39-53
https://doi.org/10.61869/GCSP6342
How to cite this article: Pfatteicher, P.A.C., McCarthy, O., & Power, C. (2024). Housing co-operatives in Germany: 160 years of evolution and resilience. Journal of Co-operative Studies, 57(1), 39-53. https://doi.org/10.61869/GCSP6342
Abstract
This paper examines the evolution and resilience of housing co-operatives in Germany from their beginning 160 years ago to the present against the backdrop of an ever-changing political, economic, social, and cultural environment. We divide the discussion into five parts: 1803-1914 — The Rise of Housing Co-operatives; 1914-1933 — World War I and the Weimar Republic; 1933-1945 — Destruction of Housing Co-operative Values and Principles, and World War II; 1945-October 1990 — A New Beginning. Housing Co-operatives in East and West Germany; and Post-1990 — From Unification to Today’s Challenges. We examine select events and developments and their impact on housing co-operatives. We argue that, despite challenges and threats, especially in times of crisis, housing co-operatives persevered, proving resilient and meeting members’ housing needs, motivated by self-help and supported by established core values and principles. Meeting members’ housing needs makes housing co-operatives especially relevant now, given Germany’s ongoing housing crisis. Lastly, we argue other countries can learn from the experience of German housing co-operatives, and establish and support a co-operative framework that allows housing co-operatives to focus on core values and principles, which are the source of co-operative resilience.