EU commissioner calls for joint action on housing crisis

EU Commissioner for Energy and Housing, Dan Jørgensen, addressed the European Parliament plenary on October 6, 2026, to discuss the ongoing housing crisis affecting millions of Europeans. Jørgensen emphasized that while the primary responsibility for housing policy remains with individual member states, the European Union must provide necessary tools and guidelines to mitigate the shortage of affordable housing.

The discussion centered on the EU Affordable Housing Act, which was officially approved by the European Commission on September 9. The act aims to empower national governments to implement targeted interventions, including potential restrictions on short-term rentals such as Airbnb, in regions experiencing severe housing shortages. Jørgensen likened access to adequate housing to fundamental services like healthcare and education, stating it is a common good that requires systemic protection.

This legislative initiative follows rising concerns over soaring property prices and rental costs across the continent. While the European Commission intends to coordinate these efforts, Jørgensen clarified that the proposed measures are not mandatory impositions on cities or member states but rather supportive frameworks designed to alleviate localized housing pressures.