Al-Moussawi expresses her concern and condemnation of the demolition of homes in Basra and calls for radical solutions to address the housing crisis.

Zainab al-Moussawi, a member of parliament for the Sadiqoon, expressed her deep concern and strong condemnation on Friday of the recent home demolitions in several residential neighborhoods in Basra Governorate. She emphasized that these measures come amid the difficult social and economic conditions facing Basra residents.
In a press statement, Al-Moussawi stressed that “the demolition of homes without providing suitable housing alternatives constitutes a flagrant violation of the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Iraqi constitution, foremost among which is the right to adequate housing and a decent living.” She noted that “these coercive measures lead to the displacement of families and exacerbate their suffering, especially in light of the poor services and high rates of unemployment and poverty”.
Al-Moussawi emphasized that the need to address building violations and regulate urban planning is undisputed. However, the solution does not lie in demolition alone, but rather requires addressing the root causes of the problem by developing a comprehensive housing plan targeting slums and providing alternative housing units for affected families.
Al-Moussawi emphasized that the need to address building violations and regulating urban planning is undisputed. However, the solution does not lie in demolition alone but rather requires addressing the root causes of the problem by developing a comprehensive housing plan targeting slums and providing alternative housing units for affected families.
She stressed the importance of launching development and service programs that contribute to improving living conditions and providing economic alternatives that would free residents from the need for informal housing.
At the end of her statement, Al-Moussawi called on the local government in Basra and relevant federal government authorities to immediately halt the demolitions and review current housing policies to ensure they are consistent with international human rights standards.