Access to decent and affordable housing in the European Union

The European Parliament has adopted a text on access to decent and affordable housing for all EU citizens. This initiative comes in a context of rising housing prices and risk of housing exclusion. The text targets all European citizens, with particular focus on vulnerable persons and low-income families.

Context and objectives

Based on EU Treaties, the Charter of Fundamental Rights and numerous European regulations, the text aims to support national housing policies through cohesion policy instruments. Main objectives include ensuring access to decent housing, combating energy poverty and promoting the ecological transition in the construction sector.

Key measures

• Use of the European Regional Development Fund and European Social Fund Plus to finance social housing
• Promotion of energy renovation of buildings to reduce energy consumption
• Development of monitoring tools for housing affordability in Member States
• Support for local authorities in implementing housing policies
• Integration of sustainability requirements in new housing construction

Timeline and implementation

Implementation will occur progressively through Member States' operational programmes for the 2021-2027 period. The European Commission will monitor progress and report annually on achievement of objectives. National and regional authorities will be responsible for implementing concrete measures.

Impact for citizens and stakeholders

Citizens will benefit from improvements in access to decent housing and reduced energy costs. Local authorities will receive financial and technical support for housing policies. Investors will find opportunities in sustainable construction. Special attention is given to vulnerable persons and disadvantaged communities.