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Learn moreContext of the Study
The document titled "Housing Policies in the EU" was published in April 2022 by Germany's Federal Institute for Research on Building, Urban Affairs and Spatial Development (BBSR), a branch of the Federal Office for Building and Regional Planning (BBR). The research is part of the "Experimental Housing and Urban Development (ExWoSt)" program conducted during Germany's EU Council Presidency in 2020. The project was managed by Rolf Müller and Jonathan Franke from BBSR, with significant contributions from the Institute for Housing and the Environment (IWU) in Darmstadt, and the Institute of Political Science at the Technical University Darmstadt. Notable authors include Dr. Max-Christopher Krapp, Martin Vaché, Prof. Dr. Björn Egner, Prof. Dr. Kai Schulze, and Samantha Thomas.
Key Findings on Housing Policies
The study provides an extensive analysis of housing policies across the European Union, focusing on the multifaceted challenges imposed by climate change, energy efficiency demands, urbanization, immigration trends, and demographic shifts. It aims to shed light on the diverse housing supply systems and policy frameworks present within the EU.
- Diverse Housing Systems: The study reveals a variety of housing supply systems among EU member states. Some countries maintain balanced markets with both owner-occupied and rental properties, while others predominantly feature owner-occupied housing.
- Policy Structures: National housing policies are heavily influenced by historical developments, socio-political tasks, market structures, and legal frameworks. The report emphasizes that while housing solutions must be tailored to national needs, there is significant value in international exchange and learning to tackle common issues.
- Governance Variability: There is considerable variation in how housing policies are governed across different countries, with responsibilities distributed among national, regional, and local authorities differently.
Impact of Financial Crisis
The 2008 financial crisis had disparate effects on housing markets in member states, impacting lending practices and influencing housing demand, particularly due to immigration. The crisis also affected construction industry capacities, which have ongoing implications for housing availability.
EU Influence on National Policies
While the EU's influence on national housing policies is generally limited, it varies by country based on existing contexts and housing stocks. EU regulations regarding state aid and energy efficiency are particularly significant in some member states.
Common Challenges Across the EU
Rising housing prices and rents in urban areas are pervasive issues, alongside a shortage of social or subsidized housing and the challenge of energy poverty. These challenges highlight a need for effective policy responses at both national and EU levels.
Trends in Tenure Dynamics
The report notes a trend towards increased rental demand in urbanized areas, driven by urbanization and labor mobility. This trend may lead to a convergence of housing tenure types across the EU, reflecting changing societal needs and preferences.
Conclusion
The report emphasizes the importance of recognizing the unique national contexts of member states while fostering international dialogue to address shared challenges in housing policy across Europe. Sustainable housing practices and policies are critical to navigating the evolving landscape of housing needs and environmental responsibilities in the EU.