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" was published by the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung and the Foundation for European Progressive Studies (FEPS) in 2021. Coordinated by Sergio Nasarre-Aznar, this collaborative effort involves experts in housing policy and aims to address the urgent challenges of social and affordable housing across the European Union. As urbanization, financialization, and gentrification continue to exert pressure on housing markets, the report highlights the need for effective strategies to ensure all citizens have access to adequate housing. One of the key findings of the report is the diversity of social housing across EU member states, with variations in funding, allocation, and management practices. Despite these differences, the common goal remains: to provide affordable housing based on need. The report includes case studies from countries like Spain, the Netherlands, and Slovakia, showcasing best practices and lessons learned in social housing policies. The authors recommend multi-level policy actions at local, regional, national, and EU levels to combat housing challenges. These include the promotion of innovative solutions such as shared ownership and temporal ownership to enhance affordability. The report advocates for a coordinated EU strategy aimed at leveraging funds and legislative tools to support social housing initiatives, emphasizing the importance of coherent legislation to tackle the housing crisis effectively. In conclusion, the report stresses the necessity of integrated approaches and collaboration among stakeholders to address the complexities of social and affordable housing in the EU. By promoting innovative solutions and strategic resource allocation, it seeks to ensure that adequate housing is accessible to all EU citizens.
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.