In the current landscape of the European Union, the housing crisis stands as a growing challenge that affects, to a greater or lesser extent, almost all member countries. In 2023, it is estimated that 4.9% of citizens over 16 years old have experienced housing difficulties at some point in their lives. However, these figures significantly increase among those facing the risk of poverty or social exclusion, reaching a concerning 8.5%. In contrast, only 3.9% of those not at risk reported these complications.
The Nordic countries, traditionally seen as models of social welfare, surprise with high rates of housing difficulties among their most vulnerable populations. Denmark leads with 18.4%, closely followed by Finland and France, with 17.5% and 17.1% respectively. This trend contrasts with nations like Poland, Italy, and Hungary, where the figures are significantly lower, around 2%.
The report also highlights the specific difficulties of the rental market, showing that young adults and those in the prime working age face greater challenges in this area. Within the age group of 16 to 29 years and 30 to 54 years, around 14.8% and 14.7% respectively reported problems finding a place to live. Although this concern decreases among people aged 55 to 64 and over 65, it remains a significant burden for many.
Across all ages, those at risk of poverty or social exclusion bear a disproportionate burden. The age group of 30 to 54 years is the most affected, with 27.7% facing difficulties in renting, followed by the age ranges of 55 to 64 years and 16 to 29 years. Surprisingly, among those over 65, the percentage at risk significantly drops to a still concerning 12.9%.
These data underscore the urgent need for coordinated policies at both regional and local levels to address housing access and economic barriers faced by broad sectors of the European population. As the gap between haves and have-nots widens, the social cohesion and well-being of EU citizens are threatened, emphasizing the importance of urgent and effective action to mitigate this growing crisis.
via: MiMub in Spanish
