In this video, we have listened to citizens in some capitals of Europe to understand their main issues regarding housing. There is indeed a housing crisis, and the S&D Group is deeply engaged in finding solutions. We, the S&Ds, are proud to have secured the first ever Commissioner for Housing, Dan Jørgensen. Together with Jørgensen’s backing, we have a stronger voice when pushing for our Affordable Housing Plan.
The European Union is currently facing a pressing housing crisis that affects people across various income groups. From low to medium income earners, many grapple with affordability challenges, excessive costs, substandard living conditions and the risk of homelessness or eviction. The working poor, elderly, single parent families, young people, as well as migrants and refugees, bear the brunt.
This crisis is deeply rooted in growing socioeconomic inequality, large-scale financialisation of housing and land, as well as unsustainable housing systems that prioritise profit over human rights.
Inadequate housing conditions negatively affect people’s physical and mental health, quality of life and dignity, as well as their access to employment and essential services.
Housing market failures endanger social Europe, increase homelessness and poverty and undermine confidence in democracy.
We need to develop policies that ensure an adequate housing supply while striking a balance between economic development and the well-being of our communities. Our aim? Affordable and thriving living spaces for all.
An EU plan to ensure decent and affordable housing must include:
- Regulation of the European housing market
- Boosting public investment in green social housing
- Curbing housing prices
- Fighting homelessness
- Ensuring decent homes for children
