This note provides country of origin information (COI) and analysis of COI for use by Home Office decision makers handling particular types of protection and human rights claims (as set out in the Introduction section). It is not intended to be an exhaustive survey of a particular subject or theme. It is split into two main sections: analysis and assessment of COI and other evidence; and COI. These are explained in more detail below.

The country information in this note has been carefully selected in accordance with the general principles of COI research as set out in the Common EU [European Union] Guidelines for Processing Country of Origin Information (COI), dated April 2008, and the Austrian Centre for Country of Origin and Asylum Research and Documentation’s (ACCORD), Researching Country Origin Information – Training Manual, 2013. Namely, taking into account the COI’s relevance, reliability, accuracy, balance, currency, transparency and traceability. The structure and content of the country information section follows a terms of reference which sets out the general and specific topics relevant to this note.

There is a shortage of housing, which is said to be generally unaffordable, largely due to poverty and a lack of housing finance. Although 74% of the urban population reportedly own their homes outright, an estimated 30% to 50% of urban dwellers live in katchi abadis (slums), most of which are unregularised, informal settlements, that have inadequate access to public services, infrastructure, and social facilities (see Property and housing rights). Tenant registration in the country  is mandatory and takes place at local police stations according to Tenant registration rule.

Housing in Pakistan is also routinely stated to be unaffordable, both because of poverty and due to the lack of formal housing finance. It is also said to be of poor quality and over-crowded, with the majority being in “slums”-or “katchi abadis” (which literally means temporary settlements) is the general term for slums, and in particular informal settlements… It is estimated that 30% to 50% of urban dwellers live in katchi abadis.