Europe needs 'a huge wake-up call' on the housing crisis, EU commissioner says

The housing crisis in the European Union has become one of the most pressing issues, prompting significant discussions led by figures such as Dan Jorgensen, the EU's first housing commissioner. Published by FRANCE 24 English, the video highlights the challenges that many Europeans face regarding housing affordability, with wages failing to keep pace with rising accommodation costs.

According to the European Commission, there has been a staggering 60% rise in house prices on average since 2015. Alarmingly, one in ten Europeans struggles to pay their rent or mortgage on time, reflecting the severity of the situation. This crisis is not only a financial burden but has also led to an increase in homelessness across the continent.

Commissioner Jorgensen emphasizes the need for a "huge wake-up call" across Europe regarding this crisis. He asserts that if people cannot afford basic needs like housing, it poses a threat to democratic stability. The EU aims to play a more proactive role in addressing the housing crisis, which has historically been neglected.

The EU's affordable housing plan seeks to ease regulations around state aid to enable national governments to intervene more effectively in the housing market. Jorgensen advocates for making it easier for member states to utilize state aid in areas where the market fails, ensuring that essential workers like nurses and teachers can afford to live in the communities they serve.

There are concerns about potential unfair competition among EU member states due to disparities in housing budgets. Jorgensen clarifies that while each member state has sovereignty over its social policies, the EU's role will be to facilitate rather than obstruct. The aim is to amend existing rules that have previously hindered member states from providing adequate support for their populations.

The rise of short-term rentals, such as those listed on platforms like Airbnb, has exacerbated housing shortages in many cities. Jorgensen acknowledges this issue and expresses openness to various measures, including the possibility of freezing housing purchases for non-residential purposes to curb the trend of short-term rentals displacing local residents.

The EU has set an ambitious target to end homelessness by 2030. Jorgensen recognizes the challenges in achieving this goal, citing the lack of affordable housing as a significant barrier. The EU plans to share best practices, such as Finland's successful "Housing First" model, which focuses on providing homes for the homeless as a priority.

The discussion also touches on energy independence, with the EU committed to halting imports of Russian liquefied natural gas by 2027. Jorgensen emphasizes the need for the EU to stop funding the war in Ukraine through energy purchases and acknowledges the challenges posed by member states that resist these changes.

In conclusion, the video underscores the urgent need for a coordinated response to the housing crisis within the EU. By prioritizing affordable housing and addressing the underlying issues, the EU aims to create a more sustainable and equitable living environment for all its residents.