The 9th Overview of Housing Exclusion in Europe 2024 is now available

The evidence on housing is clear: rental costs are escalating, house prices are becoming increasingly unaffordable and the shortage of affordable housing is growing by the day. It appears that the measures taken so far have not had the desired effect of improving these trends. At the same time, a growing number of young people are facing a situation that not only jeopardises their present circumstances, but also their future prospects.

 

If the value of a society is measured by how it treats its younger members, Europe clearly faces a significant challenge. In one of the most economically prosperous regions of the world, there is a significant minority of minors who are forced to live on the streets or in emergency or temporary accommodation. It is estimated that several million people live in housing that is unfit for human habitation. This situation is particularly urgent as housing is a fundamental aspect of social justice and equal opportunities. Those deprived from the outset of the conditions necessary to live in dignity risk being unfairly disadvantaged in their lives and excluded from participating in the future of their societies.

 

The issue of homelessness has been discussed in the European context for a number of years and there is a growing awareness of the severity of the housing crisis. The intentions of the newly re-elected President of the Commission for a new mandate are clearly in line with this objective. These include the formulation of a European anti-poverty strategy, the implementation of an unprecedented European affordable housing plan, the appointment of a housing commissioner, the creation of a European investment platform for affordable and sustainable housing, and the doubling of funding for affordable housing under cohesion policy. 

 

These initiatives are a positive step forward, but there are several key areas that require further clarification before their effectiveness can be fully assessed. While the announcements and commitments are laudable, they do not provide a comprehensive solution to the problem. At present, Member States remain the main actors with the ability to influence the situation, and European budgetary policy places significant constraints on their ability to invest in robust solutions. It is essential to rethink our approach in order to ensure that the fundamental right to housing is finally respected.

 

It is no longer time for corrective measures and minor adjustments. The crisis is too profound. We need to act more ambitiously. Governments and local authorities must join forces to combat homelessness and ensure that no child is excluded from housing, to regulate the property market and rents, to produce social and affordable housing for families, and to radically reform renovation campaigns by prioritising the most vulnerable households. Alongside these long-term social and inclusive policies, a range of immediate, concrete measures must be implemented on the ground. Every initiative, every project can hold significant impact.

 

We cannot leave entire generations behind because of immobility and inaction. Young people are our future. If we give them the stability they need, they will be able to build a fairer, more just and more united society. It is up to us, today, to make decisions that will guarantee their success tomorrow.