The Commission has launched this summer a comprehensive public consultation to gather input on the first-ever European Affordable Housing Plan.
The consultation – which runs until 17 October – invites citizens, experts, stakeholders and public authorities to respond to a detailed questionnaire available in all 24 official EU languages.
European Commissioner for Housing Dan Jørgensen said: “Tackling the housing crisis which is affecting millions of Europeans requires inclusive action. The voice of our citizens is extremely important to shape a European Affordable Housing Plan which can really impact people’s lives across the entire European Union. If we want to make sure all Europeans have an affordable, sustainable and decent home, we need to work together across all levels of governance and sectors.”
The public consultation explores all areas relevant to affordable housing in the EU, with detailed questions covering affordable and social housing, financing, state aid, construction and renovation, repurposing, densification and vacant properties, planning and permitting, simplification, rental markets, short-term accommodation rentals, secondary homes, financialisation, inclusiveness and governance. Citizens, stakeholders, and authorities at all levels are encouraged to participate in the consultation process to provide valuable insights and help shape the European Affordable Housing Plan. For more information and to participate in the consultation, please visit the dedicated page on the ‘Have Your Say’ portal.
Explore the Commission’s new affordable housing website The European Commission has launched a new website dedicated to affordable housing in the EU. Affordable housing has become an increasingly critical issue across Europe, largely driven by an insufficient housing supply and escalating costs. The website brings together key data, policy updates and the latest developments on how the European Commission is working with national, regional and local actors to make housing more accessible and sustainable, ensuring European social fairness.The website focuses on the need for buildings that are both sustainable and affordable. It notes that applications for residential building permits have fallen by more than 20% since 2021, while rents for one-bedroom apartments in cities rose by as much as 48% between 2014 and 2023.It also provides a useful overview of the EU’s key initiatives in the area of housing, from construction and renovation to energy costs and efficiency, and explains how to have your voice heard through the Affordable Housing Dialogue.Visit the website here
