The Imperative for Affordable Housing Solutions in the EU

A hybrid (online & in Brussels) lunchtime CESI@noon

Tuesday, March 26th 2024, 12:00-14:00

light lunch included

in English language

Registration here

In recent years, the European Union (EU) has grappled with a growing challenge that affects individuals, families, and communities across its member states – the pressing need for affordable housing solutions. As urbanization continues, inflation continues to be high and housing costs soar, the call for accessible and reasonably priced housing has become increasingly urgent.

In its 2023 October opening address to the conference on ‘Decent Housing for All’, the Commissioner Schmit for Jobs and Social Rights correctly noted that ”house purchase prices in the EU increased by 37% between 2010 and 2021 and rents went up by 17%, and in certain areas, households pay more than 40% of their income for housing costs.

CESI Youth invites you to a hybrid lunchtime CESI@noon event to discuss the rising housing costs and related economic disparities and social consequences for vulnerable groups, including young adults, and possible EU responses to this crisis such as a right to decent and affordable housing, a strong political engagement on the matter and more adequate financial support by public authorities. The main topics to be addressed relate to:

• Rising Housing Costs:

One of the primary factors driving the need for affordable housing in the EU is the steep rise in housing costs. Major metropolitan areas, in particular, have witnessed a surge in property prices and rental rates, making it difficult for a significant portion of the population to secure housing that fits within their budget. This trend exacerbates social and economic inequalities, affecting the most vulnerable[1], as housing costs become a barrier to stable living conditions for many.

• Economic Disparities:

Economic disparities within and between EU member states play a crucial role in the housing crisis. Lower-income households, in particular, face significant challenges in finding affordable housing that meets their needs. This issue not only impacts individuals but also has broader societal implications, as stable housing is fundamental to overall well-being and economic participation.

• Social Consequences:

The lack of affordable housing can have far-reaching social consequences. Families may be forced to live in substandard conditions with youngsters moving back to live with their elders, leading to adverse effects on health, education, and overall quality of life. Moreover, homelessness rates may rise, placing additional strain on social services and public resources.

Provisional agenda
#SocialEurope #EU2030

12:00        Welcome and light lunch

12:30        Welcome address & introductions

Matthäus Fandrejewski, dbb Jugend and CESI Youth Representative

12:40        Alice Pitinni, Research Director at Housing Europe

12:50        Sergio Perez, FEANTSA – the European Federation of National Organisations Working with the Homeless

13:00        Sarah Coupechoux, Abbe Pierre Foundation

13:10        Hans Dubois, Eurofound

13:20        Ruth Paserman, European Commission

13:30        Kim van Sparrentak, member of the European Parliament, Greens/EFA

13:35        Discussion with participants

[1] The most vulnerable according to the European Parliament 2019/2187(INI) report on ‘Decent and affordable housing for all’: the working poor, women, young people, in particular young unemployed persons, single parents, large families, the elderly, especially those living alone, LGBTIQ persons, migrants, refugees, persons with disabilities, people with physical or psychiatric illnesses, and people from marginalized communities, including Roma.