This week, the Socialists and Democrats gather in Lisbon, engaging with young people, civil society, and local progressive forces to shape people-centred solutions to Europe’s pressing housing crisis, which is eroding social stability and democracy in Portugal and across Europe.
After listening to people’s testimonies and concerns, the S&Ds are putting forward a bold and far-reaching declaration based on an essential yet still not universally upheld principle: a home is a fundamental human right, not a privilege for the few.
With the Lisbon Declaration, the S&D Group reaffirms its commitment to a just and fair Europe, calling for action to:
- end real-estate speculation and regulate short-term rentals;
- protect tenants and the most vulnerable;
- improve access to homeownership for people on low and middle incomes and for first-time buyers;
- eradicate homelessness once and for all;
- increase public investment in affordable, decent and sustainable homes for all.
Read the full declaration here
S&D President Iratxe García said:
"Houses are for living, not for speculating. This was one of the signs that welcomed us to Lisbon – a city rich in culture and charm, yet increasingly unaffordable for its own people. Our cities must remain homes for residents, not playgrounds for speculators.
"A home is a human right. This must guide all action to tackle the acute housing crisis in Europe. It is key to a fair and secure Europe. Because yes – security is not only about defence. Our safety begins with solidarity, quality jobs, strong social protection, and a decent life, including an affordable home.
"While conservatives focus on property rights and repeat ‘build, build, build’, we choose people over profit. We address the full scope of the housing challenge to ensure a life of dignity for all. We act with our youth, our middle class – the backbone of our societies – and our most vulnerable in mind."
