Across Europe, people are finding it increasingly difficult to secure and afford a decent and sustainable/ green home. More than 1 million people in Europe are homeless, and around 125 million people can’t afford a warm home. House prices and rents are going through the roof. That’s why the EU has appointed a Housing Commissioner and the European Parliament has put in place a special committee focused on solving the housing crisis. But this is not enough. The EU must prioritise people’s right to housing over profits for stakeholders.
- We need to put more public money into good, green and affordable housing.
Being able to afford a safe home is a human right and makes up a huge part of our quality of life. Public money needs to ensure that there are enough affordable and sustainable homes on the market.
- People need to be able to build and renovate their homes
It’s often those with lower incomes that have to live in buildings that have damp walls, leaking roofs or rot in window frames and consequently high energy bills. The EU need to support renovations financially, especially in marginalised communities.
- We can end homelessness, let’s get to work
A world without homelessness is possible. We know how to solve it. So let’s end the most extreme and continuously increasing form of poverty by applying the housing first principle across the EU.
- Short-term rentals are exhilarating the housing crisis
Airbnb and co are worsening the housing situation in Europe by driving up rental prices for profit. Private investors should not make millions by taking away liveable spaces in the city.
- Speculating with homes needs to stop
Homes are for people, not for profit. If you can afford to buy a second home you don’t need a tax break. Buy-to-ley properties only increase the inequality on the housing market. Housing needs to be available to those who don’t have a home yet.
Conference on the Right to Housing: Proposals for Europe from Valencia
Date & time: 17 May 2025, from 10:00 to 14:30
Location (on/offline): Jardí Botànic de València (in-person)
A participatory and dynamic gathering to discuss concrete housing proposals for the new European political cycle. The day will feature an opening conversation, thematic micro-talks, and collaborative working sessions focused on key housing challenges and policy solutions.
peakers/ programme
10:00 – Welcome coffee and registration
10:30 – Opening conversation with Javier Burón, Gordan Bosanac, and a third guest (TBC), moderated by Vicent Marzà (to be edited into a podcast)
11:15 – Light breakfast
12:00 – Micro-talks in rotating groups on:
- Rent and prices
- Housing supply
- Tourist apartments and gentrification
- Housing and the economic model
13:00 – Thematic working groups
14:15 – Closing remarks by Papi Robles and Vicent Marzà
Registration link: To be confirmed. We will share it as soon as it becomes available.