Ana Miranda: “People without houses, and houses without people.”
EFA MEP Ana Miranda intervened in plenary to address the housing crisis that is affecting Europe and the rest of the world.
Housing is a fundamental human right, yet across Europe, the issue of decent housing for all remains a significant challenge. The European debate on this topic is gaining momentum as policymakers, activists, and citizens grapple with the complexities of ensuring that everyone has access to safe, affordable, and adequate housing.
“The problem of access to housing is one of the biggest concerns of the working classes, who see how prices are rising as speculation increases the number of tourist flats without any kind of control. The number of villas in Galiza registered for tourist use has risen from 500 in 2017 to 16,500 today. “ MEP Miranda said.
One of the biggest concerns in the Housing debate is the impact of short-term rentals like Airbnbs, on the availability and affordability of long-term housing. Critics argued that the proliferation of short-term rentals reduced the housing stock available for local residents and contributed to rising rents in popular tourist destinations.
“Banks and companies are speculating on empty houses to turn them into touristic apartments, robbing the people of opportunities to live in a dignified way. “
“People without houses, and houses without people, a youth without optimism in the future has to move back to their parent's house for not being able to afford decent housing. “ Miranda added.
Across the continent, housing prices have skyrocketed, leaving many struggling to afford a place to live. In major cities, especially, soaring rents and property prices have contributed to housing insecurity. The shortage of affordable housing is a pressing issue, leading to overcrowded living conditions and homelessness for far too many
“In Europe, public housing represents 9.3% of the total, but in Galiza, it's less than 1%. Nor can we forget that since 2016 the price of rental housing has risen in Galicia by 25%. An absolute nonsense!”. MEP Miranda concluded.
As Ana Miranda, EFA MEP said, public housing as well as decent prices and tackling touristic flats are priorities for the EFA Groups to ensure that everyone has access to safe and affordable housing. As the debate continues, it is clear that housing is not only a fundamental human right but also a key driver of social inclusion and economic stability in Europe.
