ENB:11:23

IN THE INFORMAL GROUPS

RIGHT TO HOUSING: The informal group considering text related to a "right to housing" continued its examination of the four related paragraphs (13, 24, 25 and 44). Delegates pulled elements relating to adequate shelter from 25 and added them to 44. Delegates agreed on language defining adequate shelter, but bracketed all references related to a "right to housing" in each of the paragraphs. Alternative language was proposed for the "right to housing" reference in 44, calling for actions to promote, protect and ensure progressive realization of adequate shelter for all, but some delegates preferred treating all references as a package. The "right to housing" references will be sent to Istanbul in brackets.

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: While "significant progress" has been made at the informal group convened to look at paragraphs 146-150, text related to sustainable development and financial resources, some concern has been expressed by delegates and NGOs about the group's reported adoption of a "market based" approach. With two-thirds of the group's workload completed advances have been made on funding and the "enabling economic environment," one of the Conference's key concepts, which envisages the public sector promoting regulation to mobilize, facilitate and guide the efforts of the non-governmental and private sectors. Chair Amb. Richard Butler believes the group has established greater clarity in the issues and a sharper focus on what must be settled in Istanbul.