The European Union is currently facing a housing crisis, with people of all ages, across different income groups struggling with high prices and scarcity of affordable homes. This crisis affects people in all Member States and regions. The unaffordability of housing is one of the biggest concerns facing many Union citizens today. A lack of affordable housing prevents them from living an independent life, which in turn can lead to a negative impact on their health and well-being.
Disadvantaged groups and low and middle-income families are confronted with difficulties in accessing decent and affordable housing, many face social exclusion and a growing number of Europeans risk becoming homeless.
While Renew Europe recognises that the competence for housing lies with Member States and is largely managed by regional and local authorities, the EU could provide added value in proposing solutions to the housing crisis, for example, by cutting red tape, simplifying procedures, stimulating the supply chain, and enabling investments. We must look how European legislation can be simplified to make life easier, make it better for our citizens. Addressing administrative burden that hampers the provision of housing is extremely important to achieve this.
Renew Europe calls for urgent actions to tackle the housing crisis in the EU, focusing on increasing the necessary investments, promoting sustainable and energy-efficient solutions and fostering innovation. Renew Europe emphasises that housing challenges must be tackled primarily at the most local level, to deliver affordable, sustainable and decent housing models for all. Renew Europe commits to an ambitious and fair housing policy that balances market incentives with social justice and sustainability.