Matthew Baldwin, head of the Housing Working Group at the European Commission, stated at the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku that the housing crisis has become a serious threat to social stability and democratic institutions.
Baldwin noted that especially young people, vulnerable groups, and homeless individuals find it increasingly difficult to access affordable housing. Whether it's a market or policy failure, the problem requires urgent solutions.
The unresolved housing issue increases dissatisfaction in society, weakens social cohesion, and poses a risk to democracy. Baldwin emphasized that while EU countries have different policies, the common goal is to prioritize affordable housing.
An Affordable Housing Act will soon be introduced, providing cities with broader legal powers against short-term rentals and non-residential use of housing. Additionally, legislation is being simplified to accelerate construction, renovation, and bringing vacant homes back to the market. One of the key priorities is attracting additional financial resources to the housing sector.
