Housing Europe, formally the European Federation for Public, Cooperative and Social Housing, began operations on March 4, 1988, in Brussels, Belgium. Originally known as CECODHAS, it represents 45 national and regional federations plus 16 partnering organizations across 31 European countries, managing about 25 million homes—roughly 11% of the continent's existing dwellings.
The federation traces its roots to efforts supporting housing providers amid affordability challenges. In 2023, it marked 35 years by gathering founders like Michel Lachambre and Tineke Zuidervaart in Paris, while noting emerging models such as Community Land Trusts, whose European Network joined as a partner.
Housing Europe coordinates advocacy and projects, including the EU-funded Affordable Housing Initiative (2024-2026) with partners like Energy Cities and SINTEF, focusing on energy-efficient renovations and inclusive neighborhoods. A recent example: site visits to Brussels' SLRB, converting a 1969 industrial tower in Molenbeek into 63 social apartments, expanding it from 6,500 to over 10,000 square meters.
It engages coalitions like the EU Alliance for a democratic, social and sustainable European Semester, pushing policies for sustainable communities without profit-driven motives. Events celebrate long-serving providers, such as Paris Habitat's 120,000 units or Vienna's 1910 cooperative with 7,500 dwellings.