⏱ 1 min 30 read
Background
In 2020, a political compromise set the categories of housing in development zones and in the PAV (Praille-Acacias-Vernets). According to the left, the PAV categories were approved twice by voters. The parliamentary right now wants to reduce the share of low-cost housing (HBM).
The key points
On Thursday 29 October 2026, the Grand Council amended the general law on development zones by 59 votes to 40, according to the ATS news agency as reported by blue News. The minimum of 16.5% HBM becomes a maximum.
The reduction also affects the PAV, where 24% HBM was planned. The three-thirds rule remains intact: only the public-interest third changes. The aim is to build more moderate-rent housing (HLM) and mixed housing (HM).
The Socialist Party announced the launch of a referendum.
Key figures
- 59 to 40 : result of the vote in the Grand Council
- 16,5 % : share of HBM, former minimum now a maximum
- 24 % : share of HBM planned in the PAV
Who says what
- Jean-Pierre Pasquiers (PLR MP): “Everyone wants mixed neighbourhoods, not ghettos.”
- Sébastien Desfayes (Centre): HBM are out of reach for the working poor, but municipalities fear for social mix.
- Caroline Marti (Socialist): the left is ready to launch the referendum.
- Nicolas Walder (State Councillor in charge of the territory): the Council of State opposes this change, which will slow down projects.
What's next
- Launch of the referendum announced by the PS.
Further reading
Sources
- blue News (Keystone-ATS) – The right wing is reviewing the housing agreements in Geneva again
- Tribune de Genève – The Grand Council reduces the share of affordable housing in Geneva
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