Squatting is a social movement that consists of occupying an abandoned and unused plot or building, which is not rented or owned by the squatters, for a short-term period or permanently. Appeared in the sixties, this movement has seen a great development in countries such as Netherland, Germany, Switzerland and Spain.
There are two different motives for the occupation:
- The pursuit of a place to live – In some cases, homeless people that cannot afford a rent or a loan claim the right to have a house, even if that costs other people’s assets;
- Realization of some activities and promotion of political ideals – Through the reoccupation and rehabilitation of these derelict places, the squatters promote activities interwoven to politics, culture, citizenship and so on. (Examples: theaters, concerts, poetry readings, language courses for foreigners, and dance classes).
The Philosophy of the subculture
Naturally, the squatting has some characteristics that define it as a particular and unique subculture different from any other. They are:
· The anarcho-punk ideology – the squatters defend the equality between races and men and women, the workers’ and people’s rights, and environmentalism. Generally, they put the common and social interests before the private property at any cost, proving the left-wing character of their ideals;
· The fight against the property speculation and the capitalism;
· The fact that every occupation is carried through in a self-management regimen, and so that there is no type of leader;
· Recovery of abandoned buildings and spaces;
· The help given to needy people.
Legal aspects of squatting
Although the squatting is illegal in most places, the legal substance as far as this subject is concerned varies from country to country.
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Symbols of Squatting
- The slogan “Occupy and resist”
- Squatting flag, inspired by the anarchist flag;
- The use of the letter K in certain words in some European countries;
- Punk rock music, which lyrics shows this subculture’s ideals. (Examples: Transfer, Agua Bendita, Pocket Rocket, etc.)