From nobel intent to social ills: Mitigating wicked problems in public sector housing in Small Island Developing States (SIDS)

Public sector social housing projects (PSSHPs) play a crucial role in stimulating societal and infrastructural growth in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The intended delivery of benefits from these social projects are curtailed due to political influences. This impacts decision-making, leading to self-interest and deceptive practices. The aim of this paper is to examine the societal impacts of inept political influence on PSSHPs, which manifests as inadequate planning, incomplete scope and design of public housing communities, and inherently increase the complexity and unpredictability of delivering PSSHPs within time, quality and cost. This contributes to the emergence of a "wicked problem" dilemma, negatively impacting on four broader social problems, such as crime, educational opportunities, unemployment, and poverty. The culmination of these problems further complicates societal growth by promoting negative public perceptions and social dependency on short term government employment programs. To address these challenges, a holistic approach that incorporates accountable and transparent practices, political risk mitigation, and effective project management strategies are recommended to combat the “wicked- problem, clumsy- solutions” phenomenon. By understanding and proactively addressing these issues, a more inclusive and successful public housing system can be created, meeting the requirements of society while minimizing negative unsustainable consequences.