re:publica

2024

Hendrik Lehmann, Helena Wittlich, and others

The research project "#GroundControl" addresses the pressing issue of the housing crisis in major European cities. With rising rents and the displacement of tenants making headlines, this initiative takes a deeper dive into the underlying problem of land ownership, examining who truly owns the ground in these urban environments. The project utilizes a combination of satellite imagery, AI analyses, and local investigations to map land ownership patterns across various European capitals. For an entire year, a dedicated team of data and investigative journalists worked tirelessly to shed light on the complexities that hinder the development of affordable housing. Their findings reveal the significant role that various entities play in land ownership, including powerful institutions like the church, which is one of the largest landowners in Europe. The research also uncovers the factors that contribute to the difficulty of constructing affordable housing, including international investment strategies and the influence of opaque ownership structures. The project has faced challenges, including political pushback, as it illuminates uncomfortable truths about land ownership and housing politics. By documenting cases not only in Berlin but also in cities like Prague, Budapest, and Brussels, "#GroundControl" aims to spark discussions and promote awareness about the systemic issues affecting housing in Europe today. Through their findings, the team hopes to encourage policy changes that will ultimately lead to more equitable and affordable housing solutions for all residents.