During this week’s European Council meeting, for the first time EU leaders will discuss skyrocketing housing costs. The Council is also expected to ask the Commission to develop a European Affordable Housing Plan. This a historic step that delivers real solutions to our citizens’ concerns, driven by the social democrats, and places the housing crisis at the highest level of the European agenda.

EU Head of states and Prime Ministers will also discuss current challenges such as competitiveness and the green transition, recent developments in Middle East, defence, support and financing for Ukraine, and migration.

During a plenary debate, ahead of the European Council meeting, S&D leader, Iratxe García, urged EU leaders to act with conviction and regain the trust of our citizens. The S&D Group will continue working to provide real solutions.

Iratxe García said:

“Europe is facing enormous challenges: inaccessible housing, climate change, war, and growing inequality. This week, for the first time, the European Council can take a historic step by requesting a European Affordable Housing Plan. Housing is not a luxury – it is a right, a place where we build our families, care for our loved ones, and create hope.

 “That hope must also guide the climate transition – reducing emissions, protecting workers, and ensuring social justice. Europe will only be strong if its Green Deal is fair and no one is left behind.

 “And, as we shape the future, we cannot ignore the tragedy in Gaza or Putin’s aggression against Ukraine. Peace, a ceasefire, justice, and support for those defending their freedom are essential. Europe must act decisively, sanction those who commit crimes, and guarantee freedom and dignity for all.

 “Let us build a Europe that provides a home to those without one, peace to those who suffer, work to those seeking dignity, and a future to those living in uncertainty. When Europe is courageous and humane, it becomes truly great again.”