Previous regional consultations were organized in Africa (Kenya – 2002), Asia (India – 2003), Latin America (Mexico – 2003), Middle East (Egypt – 2004) and the Pacific (2004). They have the support of UN-Habitat and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and allow gathering information for the study of the Special Rapporteur on adequate housing on women and housing and cases of violations of women rights.

Given the linkages between lack of adequate housing and violence against women, the consultation also included participation of the Special Rapporteur on violence against women.

The Observatori DESC promotes social justice trhough an integral vision of human rights, including economic, social and cultural rights.