Housing Crisis in the EU

Building solutions for Europe’s housing crisis

The European Union is facing a severe housing crisis, with high prices and a lack of affordable homes affecting citizens across all income levels. The right to housing is recognised in international and European frameworks, yet many citizens struggle with inadequate living conditions. Special attention is needed for vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities and those experiencing homelessness.

To tackle this crisis, the EPP Group supported the establishment of a Special Committee on the Housing Crisis in the European Union. This Committee will map housing needs, assess the impact of market speculation and short-term rentals on housing availability, and examine the effectiveness of public and private funding. A key focus will be on proposing solutions to increase access to decent, sustainable, and affordable housing while respecting the subsidiarity principle. The Committee will evaluate the role of social and cooperative housing, identify barriers in the construction sector, and explore policy reforms to boost housing supply. It will also examine how new technologies, smarter regulations, and better funding strategies can support renovation and new construction efforts.

The Committee will operate for 12 months, conducting expert hearings, site visits, and research. At the end of its term, it will present a final report outlining actionable recommendations to improve housing conditions across the EU.