View of the Seine embankment. Europe needs more affordable housing: countries are preparing a joint action plan Economic development
Millions of people in Europe continue to struggle with housing: more than a third of poorer families spend more than 30 percent—and many 45 percent—of their income on housing, according to new research from the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (ECE). It is especially difficult for young families, older people, migrants and parents who raise children alone.
More than 30 ministers and high-ranking officials from the countries of the region, who gathered in Geneva at the 86th session of the UNECE Committee on Urban Planning, Housing and Land Management, intend to combat these challenges. The meeting participants confirmed that housing is not a luxury, but a basic human right, and committed to take concrete steps to improve its affordability and sustainability.
“Affordability and environmental friendliness of housing are fundamental priorities,” emphasized UNECE Executive Secretary Tatiana Molchan. “Our region is united in our commitment to addressing these challenges through international cooperation, evidence-based policies, and above all, equity and inclusion.”
State Secretary, Director General of the Swiss Federal Housing Office and meeting chairman Martin Chirren added: “Without universal access to quality and affordable housing, social and economic problems arise that affect education, health, transport and ecology”. increasing public investment in housing construction and expanding social, cooperative and public housing funds. There are plans to increase private fundraising through green bonds, sustainability-linked loans, community land trusts and mixed financial instruments.
Special attention will be paid to the regulation of short-term tourist rentals to reduce speculation in the market, as well as land tax reform for a more equitable land policy.
Support for local authorities and new approaches to construction
Reaffirming commitments made at the 5th UN Forum of Mayors this week, ministers stressed the need to strengthen the role of local authorities, who are on the frontline of the fight against housing problems. They need to be given more legal, political and financial support to implement climate-resilient and affordable housing policies.
Particular attention will be given to upgrading existing housing stock, redeveloping empty and underutilized urban areas, and new building models that combine energy efficiency, innovative technologies and climate change adaptation measures.
Transparency and responsibility
For To better understand the situation, countries in the region intend to actively collect and share geospatial data, including 3D models of the built environment. Ministers reaffirmed that housing must remain an international priority – both within the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals and the UN Geneva Charter on Sustainable Housing.
The UNECE Committee on Urban Planning, Housing and Land Management will report annually on progress made and negotiate new steps.