EU Commissioner Identifies a Role Model in Vienna's Housing Policy

The EU Commissioner for Energy and Housing, the Dane Dan Jørgensen, described Vienna's housing policy as a model on Friday. It could be an inspiration for other cities, he said after a meeting with Mayor Michael Ludwig (SPÖ) - during which Jørgensen presented the EU plan for affordable housing. Europe is facing a housing crisis, which is also a social crisis, warned the EU Commissioner.

So far, the issue has not been particularly high on the European Union's agenda, the guest emphasized. This has now changed. After all, millions of citizens are affected and cannot live adequately. For example, everyone should be able to live near their workplace, which is becoming increasingly difficult in many cities.

"The EU is also there for the concerns of the people"

"The EU is also there for the concerns of the people," assured Jørgensen. As far as housing is concerned, Vienna has been a model for more than 100 years. Mayor Ludwig, in turn, expressed satisfaction that the EU is addressing the issue and has now also established a department for it. The Commission's plan for affordable housing is also important: "It is a strong initial move."

Jørgensen and Ludwig agreed that the creation of housing - even in times of tight budgets - is necessary. According to the EU Commission, about 650,000 additional apartments need to be built in the Union, in addition to the current level of about 1.6 million units. The additional properties would cost about 150 billion euros, it was said today.

The mayor further reiterated that privatizations are not being considered. They do not sell municipal apartments, but even build new ones, he emphasized. Furthermore, it is also about creating framework conditions for the commercial sector.

What is a problem for Jørgensen and Ludwig

Both considered short-term rentals of apartments for tourist purposes to be a problem. Ludwig was convinced that Vienna is also setting a good example here. He pointed out that apartments here may only be offered on platforms for a maximum of 90 days per year.

Regarding a possible vacancy tax, he was skeptical. One should not expect too much here. It is difficult to check or define vacancy, Ludwig noted.

(APA/Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.