Analysis of the public housing policy 'Misión Casa Para Todos' and its effects on social and human development in Ecuador

Abstract

The Ecuadorian public policy “Misión Casa Para Todos” represents a significant effort to reduce the housing deficit and improve the living conditions of historically excluded sectors. While it has achieved concrete progress by facilitating access to decent housing for thousands of vulnerable families, its impact on social and human development remains limited when analyzed from a comprehensive perspective. This essay argues that housing should not be understood merely as a physical structure, but rather as an essential component of human development. In this regard, the policy presents important shortcomings: lack of territorial planning, weak inter-institutional coordination, limited community participation, and the absence of a long-term vision. These factors have hindered the Mission from becoming a sustainable and transformative strategy. Although Misión Casa Para Todos has been a valuable step, simply delivering housing is not enough. It is necessary to rethink the policy from a rights-based approach, with active community participation and real coordination with basic services, employment, and education. Only in this way can Ecuador move toward a housing model that is not merely palliative, but part of a true social justice Project.