Claude Meisch at the European Conference of Ministers responsible for Housing

Access to housing is essential to prevent poverty and social exclusion. However, decent housing is becoming increasingly difficult in the European Union. Housing costs are rising rapidly, often exceeding average incomes. This crisis particularly affects low-income households, people in precarious situations and the homeless. The European authorities recognise the urgent need for common solutions to promote inclusive and affordable housing, while respecting the principle of subsidiarity.

Investment in affordable housing is crucial not only for meeting basic needs, but also for stimulating the local economy, promoting occupational mobility, improving public health and combating climate change. The European housing ministers are calling for a collaborative approach to solving these challenges, as well as for the ecological renovation of Europe's building stock.

In his speech, the Minister of Housing and Spatial Planning, Claude Meisch, presented the package of measures for housing and support for the construction sector presented by the Luxembourg government at the end of January. "A high level of public investment in the creation of affordable housing, extended support for individuals and time-limited tax incentives for investors - these are the first levers to boost the housing market. The next priority is to simplify administration and speed up procedures", said Claude Meisch, describing the government's ambitions for housing.

The ministers responsible for housing support the development of new partnerships between the private sector, non-governmental organisations and public institutions to develop innovative solutions for affordable housing, such as cooperative housing, affordable and community housing and mixed housing programmes.

In the final declaration, the ministers call for a new European contract for affordable housing, aimed at supporting the development of policies promoting access to affordable, decent and sustainable housing for all. The European Commission is invited to set up, with the support of the European institutions, an annual European summit bringing together all the stakeholders involved in the implementation of Member States' actions in the field of affordable housing, based on a multi-level approach and the exchange of best practice.

The issue of affordable housing is a major challenge for Luxembourg and the EU, but also an opportunity to strengthen social cohesion and promote sustainable economic development.

Press release from the Ministry of Housing and Spatial Planning