Squatters are individuals who occupy an abandoned or unoccupied property without legal permission from the owner. This practice often occurs in urban areas where housing shortages exist, leading people to seek shelter in vacant buildings. Squatting can be a response to economic hardship or homelessness, and it raises legal and social issues regarding property rights and housing access. In many countries, laws regarding squatting vary significantly. Some places have specific regulations that protect squatters after a certain period of occupation, while others strictly enforce eviction. The topic of squatting often intersects with discussions about housing rights, urban development, and social justice.