The European Housing Forum (EHF) affirms again its commitment to addressing Europe’s housing challenges by participating in and supporting the re-establishment of the URBAN Intergroup in the European Parliament. This crucial initiative, which has shaped housing and urban policy since its inception in 2005, is poised to continue its vital work, provided it receives sufficient backing from Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) in the coming days.
A critical moment for Housing advocacy
Recent weeks have seen a flurry of political activity in Brussels, with the spotlight on the hearings of Commissioners-designate. As focus now shifts to other parliamentary priorities, MEPs will cast their votes on intergroup re-establishment starting this week.
With over 40 intergroup requests submitted and only 22 likely to be approved, the competition for re-establishment is intense. Political groups are already engaging in internal voting, with results expected shortly. EBC, as a key stakeholder in the EHF, is rallying support for the URBAN Intergroup to ensure housing and construction matters remain a central issue in EU policymaking.
Why the URBAN Intergroup Matters
The URBAN Intergroup has been instrumental in elevating urban challenges, particularly housing, within the European Parliament’s agenda. From the state of play in the construction to affordability, as well as energy efficiency, the group has facilitated cross-sector collaboration and innovative policy solutions to address the housing crisis. Its role as a platform for dialogue and policy shaping is relevant, even more so in a context with a growing focus on the triangle housing-energy-construction.
As housing challenges grow more complex and visible, the URBAN Intergroup’s contributions are more critical than ever. With the EHF’s support, it can continue driving sustainable and inclusive urban development, ensuring that housing policy reflects the needs of millions of Europeans.
Looking Ahead: The Call to Action
In a letter, the European Housing Forum urges MEPs to lend their support to the re-establishment of the URBAN Intergroup, as it represents a vital link between stakeholders and policymakers, ensuring housing and construction remain a top EU priority.
With the political momentum building, EBC and its EHF partners amplify this message to ensure that housing challenges are addressed with the urgency and innovation they demand at the European Parliament, securing a brighter future for Europe’s urban communities, as well as the housing and construction sectors.
The European Housing Forum is a unique coalition of organizations representing a diverse range of stakeholders in the housing sector. Its members include the Architects’ Council of Europe ACE, the European Association of Real Estate Professions CEPI, COFACE Families Europe, EBC, FIEC, the European Network for Housing Research ENHR, Habitat for Humanity, the European Landowners’ Organization ELO, Eurocities, the International Union of Tenants IUT, the European Federation of National Organisations Working with the Homeless FEANTSA, the European Ageing Network EAN, Housing Europe, RICS, and Build Europe.
  | To read the full letter “Support for the re-establishement of the Urban Intergroup in the European Parliament” of the EHF, click here. For more information about the European Housing Forum, visit www.europeanhousingforum.eu |