Housing Crisis in the European Union

The resource titled "Housing Crisis in the European Union" is published by the European Parliament. It provides a comprehensive overview of the ongoing housing crisis in Europe, highlighting the challenges faced by households and the steps being taken at the EU level to address these issues.

The housing crisis is increasingly critical, with 10% of EU households spending over 40% of their income on housing. Although housing policy primarily falls under national jurisdiction, the EU plays a significant role through its policies on the internal market, social welfare, and environmental standards. The European Pillar of Social Rights and the Renovation Wave strategy underscore the EU's commitment to tackling homelessness and ensuring affordable housing.

The EU's actions on housing are grounded in several legal documents, including Article 3(3) of the Treaty on European Union and various articles from the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. These documents emphasize the importance of social inclusion, public health, and the provision of services of general interest, all of which are crucial for decent housing.

The EU aims to promote economic, social, and territorial cohesion while combating social exclusion. Access to adequate housing is a fundamental aspect of these goals. The European Pillar of Social Rights has established specific rights related to housing, including protection against forced evictions and the right to shelter for homeless individuals.

The European Pillar of Social Rights Action Plan and the Renovation Wave strategy are key initiatives aimed at improving housing conditions. The action plan outlines concrete actions to reduce poverty and eradicate homelessness by 2030. The Renovation Wave strategy focuses on enhancing energy efficiency in buildings, which account for 40% of the EU's energy consumption, by doubling annual renovation rates by 2030.

The European Parliament has recognized the housing crisis as a critical issue, leading to the appointment of a Commissioner responsible for housing. A new Housing Task Force has been formed to create the first-ever European Affordable Housing Plan, aimed for introduction in early 2026. This plan will include strategies to secure financing for affordable and sustainable housing across Europe.

The European Parliament has set the groundwork for improved energy efficiency in housing through various resolutions. It has called for access to decent and affordable housing for all, emphasizing the need for national homelessness strategies and urgent measures to tackle housing overburden rates. The Parliament has also recognized the negative impacts of short-term rental markets on housing availability and prices.

In December 2024, the European Parliament established a Special Committee on the Housing Crisis to propose solutions for sustainable and affordable housing. This committee will analyze current housing needs and assess existing policies to address the crisis effectively. The document serves as a crucial resource for understanding the multifaceted approach the EU is taking to combat the housing crisis, focusing on sustainability, social inclusion, and economic viability.