Members of the European Parliament debate on sustainable, decent and affordable housing in Europe
In the spotlight: regulatory reforms, increased public housing investments, and targeted support for vulnerable populations
Strasbourg, France, 9 October 2024 | Published in Future of the EU & Housing
On October 9, the European Parliament brought the housing crisis discussion back to Strasbourg, emphasising the urgent need for decisive action at both EU and national levels. European Commission Vice-President Margaritas Schinas highlighted that housing has become a privilege for many, driven by rising prices and insufficient regulation.
Various MEPs advocated for stronger EU intervention, calling for regulatory reforms, increased public housing investments, and targeted support for vulnerable populations.
Dirk Gotink (EPP, NL) warned that unaffordable housing erodes confidence in the future and democracy, asserting the need for renewed housing construction and streamlined regulations to encourage investment. Kim van Sparrentak (Greens/EFA, NL) called for stricter conditions on investments to prioritise social housing over speculative capital, ensuring that homes serve people, not profit. Gabriele Bischoff (S&D, DE) echoed concerns over skyrocketing housing costs and rising homelessness, insisting that concrete actions are needed to ensure low and middle-income individuals can secure adequate housing. She advocated for a coherent European housing plan, leveraging existing mechanisms.
Commissioner Schinas announced the upcoming launch of a European Affordable Housing Plan and reaffirmed the Commission's commitment to supporting local authorities while respecting subsidiarity, setting the stage for concrete actions in addressing the affordability crisis.