Cooperative Housing International (CHI)

Cooperative Housing International (CHI) is a global network dedicated to promoting cooperative housing as a sustainable and socially responsible solution to housing needs. It operates as a sectoral organization under the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) and connects cooperative housing federations, associations, and organizations from over 70 countries, including many across Europe. The network fosters international collaboration through education, training, and the sharing of best practices, supporting both established and emerging cooperative housing initiatives. CHI’s primary mission is to encourage democratically controlled, jointly owned housing enterprises that serve the economic, social, and cultural needs of their members rather than generating profit for investors. The organization places a strong emphasis on affordability, sustainability, and inclusivity, advocating for housing models that are adaptable to local and regional contexts. CHI is active in policy discussions, awareness campaigns, and building partnerships, including collaborations with entities like Housing Europe and the CoHabitat Network, to amplify the cooperative housing movement’s impact at both the policy and grassroots levels. The organization does not directly develop housing but acts as a crucial facilitator, providing technical expertise, resources, and networking opportunities for members. Its activities include organizing symposiums, offering resources on governance and finance, and supporting the creation of legal and policy frameworks conducive to cooperative housing. CHI is committed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and works to empower communities to build equitable, resilient, and sustainable neighborhoods across Europe and beyond.