Congratulations to Irene Tinagli, elected chair of the European Parliament’s Special Committee on the Housing Crisis in the EU.
During our meeting with the MEP last week, Housing Europe highlighted two critical points regarding the housing affordability challenges facing Europe. First, we emphasised the risk of losing focus on the non-profit housing sector, arguing that the housing crisis cannot be addressed solely through an indiscriminate push for increased supply. Investing in public, cooperative, and non-profit housing guarantees that affordable homes reach those most in need, while generating long-term benefits in terms of purchasing power, health, and economic stimulus.
Second, we raised concerns about a potential one-size-fits-all approach to EU housing policy, stressing the importance of considering local contexts. Different regions have varying capacities for repurposing vacant properties and different fiscal conditions that affect the use of subsidies and public-private partnerships. We urged policymakers to avoid promoting solutions that rely on private for-profit organisations benefiting from public sector risk-sharing, which may not be suitable for every region.
There is a growing realisation that leaving everything to the market will not magically deliver affordable housing. We need to dig deeper. Yes, we do.
We are ready to bring the right expertise to the table. Read more about the new HOUS Committee and who is in it.