Friedrich Ebert Stiftung and the Foundation for European Progressive Studies (FEPS)
2021
Sergio Nasarre-Aznar, Milan Ftáčnik, Núria Lambea-Llop and others
The report titled "Concrete Actions for Social and Affordable Housing in the EU," coordinated by Sergio Nasarre-Aznar, examines the significant housing challenges faced by the European Union, including affordability issues driven by urbanization and gentrification. It highlights the diverse roles of social housing across member states, emphasizing the need for targeted policy actions. Key recommendations include multi-level strategies to address these challenges, promotion of sustainable development goals, and innovative housing solutions such as shared ownership. The report advocates for a coordinated EU strategy to enhance living conditions for all citizens, calling for collaboration between public and private sectors and comprehensive research to inform effective policies. Ultimately, it stresses the necessity of integrated approaches and coherent legislation to ensure access to adequate housing across the EU.
Summary of the Report
Title: Concrete Actions for Social and Affordable Housing in the EU
Authors: Sergio Nasarre-Aznar (Coordinator), Milan Ftáčnik, Núria Lambea-Llop, Līga Rasnača
Published by: Friedrich Ebert Stiftung and the Foundation for European Progressive Studies (FEPS)
Publication Year: 2021
Context
The report addresses the pressing challenges of social and affordable housing within the European Union (EU). It is a collaborative effort by experts in housing policy, coordinated by Sergio Nasarre-Aznar, a prominent figure in housing law and policy. The report is supported by various European foundations and institutions.
Key Findings
- Housing Challenges: The EU faces significant housing challenges, including affordability issues exacerbated by urbanization, financialization, and gentrification. These challenges affect not only low-income groups but also middle-income and younger generations.
- Social Housing Diversity: Social housing plays different roles across EU member states, with variations in funding, allocation, and management. Despite these differences, common features include affordability and targeted allocation based on need.
- Country Studies: The report includes detailed case studies from several EU countries (Spain, Netherlands, UK, Slovakia, Austria, Latvia) highlighting best practices and lessons learned in social housing policies.
- Policy Recommendations:
- Multi-level policy actions are recommended to address housing challenges at local, regional, national, and EU levels.
- Emphasis on sustainable development goals related to housing.
- Encouragement of innovative housing solutions like shared ownership and temporal ownership to enhance affordability.
- EU's Role: The report advocates for a coordinated EU strategy on housing to ensure adequate living conditions for all citizens. This includes leveraging EU funds and legislative tools to support social housing initiatives.
Lessons Learned
- Research-Based Policies: Effective housing policies require comprehensive research and understanding of local contexts.
- Continuum of Housing Tenures: A diverse range of housing options can prevent market volatility and support economic stability.
- Public-Private Collaboration: Soft measures involving collaboration with private stakeholders can effectively increase social housing stock.
- Coherent Legislation: Avoiding fragmented policies through coherent legislation at multiple governance levels is crucial for addressing housing issues effectively.
Conclusion
The report underscores the importance of integrated approaches to tackle the complex issue of social and affordable housing in the EU. It calls for innovative solutions, better coordination among stakeholders, and strategic use of resources to ensure that all EU citizens have access to adequate housing.