The EU can tackle the housing crisis with more robust cohesion funding

In a report on the role of cohesion investments in resolving the housing crisis, adopted with 32 votes in favor, 4 against, and 0 abstentions, MEPs say closer alignment between housing policies and the EU’s cohesion policy is crucial. Among the report’s key proposals is the call to double the funding for affordable housing through cohesion policy. MEPs propose the introduction of cohesion policy objectives for public, not-for-profit, social, affordable and co-operative housing, and also want to see “a more balanced approach” between support for new housing and for energy efficiency interventions. According to MEPs, affordable and resilient housing should be a strategic priority for the post-2027 funding framework, with support for renovations and disaster-resistant housing. They propose broadening the scope of housing-related cohesion policy investment to include water efficiency and refurbishing. Affordable housing priorities should, the say, benefit from 100% co-financing and exceptional pre-financing. Strong role for local actors The report calls for partnerships with, and active involvement of, local and regional authorities when planning and implementing projects. Centralisation of programs at the national level should be avoided, MEPs say while noting the different needs of different places in the EU. Solutions should simultaneously combat depopulation in certain regions and avoid overpopulation in others, while taking into account the special needs of islands and...