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(a) Assess the role of government in providing and securing shelter for individuals. - HSC - SSCE Legal Studies - Question 29 - 2012 - Paper 1
Question 29
(a) Assess the role of government in providing and securing shelter for individuals.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:(a) Assess the role of government in providing and securing shelter for individuals. - HSC - SSCE Legal Studies - Question 29 - 2012 - Paper 1
Step 1
Assess the role of government in providing shelter
Answer
The government plays a crucial role in ensuring that individuals have access to adequate housing. This responsibility can take various forms, including the development of housing policies, funding public housing projects, and ensuring adherence to building codes. Governments can provide direct housing through public housing initiatives or indirectly through subsidies and tax incentives for private housing development.
Moreover, governments are responsible for the enforcement of housing regulations that protect tenants from exploitation and unsafe living conditions. This may include rent control laws, building inspections, and initiatives aimed at reducing homelessness and providing emergency shelters.
Step 2
Assess the role of government in securing shelter
Answer
In terms of securing shelter, governments often implement legal frameworks that safeguard individuals' rights to housing. Laws that address eviction procedures, tenant rights, and housing discrimination are integral to protecting individuals seeking shelter.
Furthermore, international instruments, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, recognize the right to adequate housing, and many governments have incorporated these principles into domestic law. This legal backing is essential for individuals facing housing insecurity or discrimination, as it provides a basis for legal recourse and protection.
Step 3
Evaluate the effectiveness of government interventions
Answer
Assessing the effectiveness of government interventions requires examining the outcomes of various housing programs, the adequacy of legal protections, and the accessibility of these resources. While many governments have made strides in providing shelter, challenges remain, such as inadequate funding, bureaucratic delays, and the need for more affordable housing units. Additionally, societal factors such as economic inequality and discrimination can impact the government's ability to secure shelter for all individuals. Continuous evaluation and adaptation of housing policies are essential for meeting the evolving needs of the population.