Friedrich Ebert Stiftung and the Foundation for European Progressive Studies (FEPS)
2021
Sergio Nasarre-Aznar, Milan Ftáčnik, Núria Lambea-Llop, and others
The report "Concrete Actions for Social and Affordable Housing in the EU," coordinated by Sergio Nasarre-Aznar, addresses the urgent challenges of social and affordable housing in the European Union. It highlights significant issues like affordability, urbanization, and gentrification that impact various income groups, particularly low and middle-income households. The report presents a diverse view of social housing across member states, showcasing case studies from Spain, the UK, and others, while offering policy recommendations for multi-level actions. Key strategies include promoting sustainable development, innovative housing solutions, and enhancing public-private collaboration. The report advocates for a coordinated EU strategy to utilize funds and legislation effectively in support of social housing initiatives. Ultimately, it emphasizes the need for research-based, coherent policies and integrated approaches to ensure all EU citizens have access to adequate housing.
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.