EU housing ministers hold informal meeting in Nicosia

On May 12, 2026, EU housing ministers gathered at the Filoxenia Conference Centre in Nicosia for an informal meeting chaired by Cyprus Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou. The summit focuses on the European housing crisis, characterized by rising costs, demographic pressures, and structural supply shortages. Minister Ioannou stated that the EU requires an additional 650 billion euros in annual investment to balance housing supply and demand. The agenda prioritizes reducing bureaucracy in licensing procedures and maximizing the use of European funding tools to support public and private resources. Ministers and stakeholders are engaged in dialogue to strengthen national housing plans and improve social cohesion. Beyond policy discussions, the delegates visited the Famagusta Cultural Centre and attended a cultural event, highlighting the Cypriot Presidency's commitment to prioritizing affordable and sustainable housing.