During the thirteenth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, the focus was not on the red carpet or film screenings, but rather on a documentary highlighting the homelessness crisis. The film features Latier Thioy, a former user of the HOGAR SÍ program, which was founded by Richard Gere and his wife Alejandra.
In an exclusive interview with Euronews, Gere explained the passion behind his support for the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and his personal role in the HOGAR SÍ program. He stated, "My motivation to work with HOGAR SÍ stems from a personal conviction: homelessness is not inevitable; it is a social injustice that can be resolved through a profound change in understanding and approach."
Event Details
Gere and his wife have been working with HOGAR SÍ for over a decade and recently joined the organization's board of trustees. Gere noted that the organization focuses on respecting human rights and dignity, relying on evidence-based solutions. HOGAR SÍ employs a "Housing First" methodology, similar to other organizations worldwide.
Gere affirmed, "I strongly believe that housing is the gateway to all other rights. Without a safe home, there is no health, no education, and no stable employment. When this door is closed, it becomes difficult to break the cycle of exclusion." The couple is determined to draw international attention to what they consider one of the major humanitarian challenges facing modern cities: homelessness.
Background & Context
The homelessness crisis is one of the pressing social issues facing many countries, with major cities experiencing a rising number of homeless individuals. In recent years, many non-governmental organizations and governments have begun taking serious steps to address this problem, but there remains an urgent need for greater international cooperation.
Through his work with the United Nations, Gere aims to highlight the importance of international collaboration in tackling urban challenges such as homelessness and inequality. The World Urban Forum serves as an ideal platform to discuss these issues, bringing together political, social, and technical voices to achieve common goals.
Impact & Consequences
The repercussions of the homelessness crisis extend beyond individual dimensions, affecting society as a whole. Studies indicate that providing housing can reduce health and social costs and enhance economic stability. Addressing this issue can also contribute to improving the quality of life in cities.
Gere emphasizes that sustainable solutions require commitment from governments and local communities and must be part of public policies. He points out that success in ending homelessness depends on cooperation among various stakeholders, including the private sector and civil society.
Regional Significance
In the Arab region, many countries are witnessing an increase in the number of homeless individuals due to armed conflicts and economic crises. Gere and his wife's experience with HOGAR SÍ serves as a model that can be emulated in Arab countries, where the "Housing First" methodology can be applied to provide effective solutions.
Addressing the homelessness crisis in the Arab world requires joint efforts from governments and local communities, and there must be clear strategies aimed at improving living conditions for the most vulnerable groups.
In conclusion, Richard Gere's call to end homelessness opens new avenues for discussion about human rights and housing as a fundamental right. Collective action and international cooperation are key to achieving the desired change.