The ongoing housing crisis is creating significant economic and social tensions in European cities, as many people struggle to afford property amid rising prices and slow construction.

In a notable shift, housing has been explicitly prioritized on the agenda of the new Danish Commissioner for the EU, Dan Jorgensen, underscoring its critical importance.

A report from European Commissioner Nicolas Schmit revealed an alarming annual investment deficit of €57 billion in social and affordable housing, alongside a pressing need to renovate 800,000 social homes each year.

The housing issue has been a focal point for local elected officials, particularly during the Eurocities summit held in Strasbourg in October 2023, where various proposals were discussed with new EU parliament members.

An increasing number of individuals are remaining in social housing, which restricts access for those in genuine need, contributing to long-term housing insecurity, homelessness, and deteriorating living conditions.

According to the 2023 report from the Abbé Pierre Foundation, approximately 895,000 people are homeless across Europe, highlighting the severity of the crisis.

In response to the rising property prices, a coalition of elected officials from French and European metropolises is advocating for guaranteed loans to finance housing programs.

Although housing is not officially within the EU's competencies, it has emerged as a significant issue affecting employment and social exclusion across member states.

As cities become increasingly unaffordable for workers and students, many are resorting to informal and often degrading housing solutions, particularly affecting the poor and migrants.