Housing: A Game of Snakes and Ladders

The Greek islands are now empty. Since 2020, almost everyone has been moved to the mainland. Many displaced people now find themselves in crowded camps and on the streets of Athens. This is because the available accommodation options are insufficient; they are like a snakes and ladders board, only the ladders are missing. For people forced to play this game, there’s no way to win.

Forced displacement separates a person from their home and support network. People, particularly men, arrive in Athens alone and with nothing in place. In this instability, it is virtually impossible to find and maintain private accommodation, so many people turn to state-provided options. These state-led schemes have serious flaws, but crucially they do not help people return to private housing. Those who can access the schemes are locked in; those who can’t are left homeless.

Mazí’s supportive housing programe helps people acquire the ‘keys’ they need to independently exit homelessness for good.

The Accommodation Options: A Game of Snakes, No Ladders