Over 1.27 Million Homeless Across Europe, Crisis Deepens in Major Cities
More than 1.27 million people experience homelessness across Europe each night, with nearly 5% of the EU population having faced some form of homelessness in their lifetime, according to data released today on World Homeless Day.
The figures, described as a “conservative estimate” by Ruth Owen, deputy director of the Federation of National Organizations Working with the Homeless in Europe, capture only those visibly experiencing homelessness – those sleeping rough or in shelters. However, the broader scope now includes individuals staying with family and friends due to a lack of housing. “We have some new statistics from the European level…that comes to almost 5% of the EU population who have experienced some form of homelessness in their lifetime,” Owen stated. Germany has the largest homeless population, with around 530,000 people, while France has seen a 20,000 increase in the past year, reaching 350,000. This growing crisis puts a strain on social services and highlights increasing economic inequality.
The situation varies significantly across Europe; while the Greek Cypriot administration officially reports no homelessness, data suggests 11% of the population has experienced precarious housing situations. Brussels exemplifies the worsening trend, with its homeless population surging from 1,700 in 2008 to over 10,000 today, largely due to rising housing costs. Experts point to a lack of affordable housing as a primary driver of homelessness, a problem exacerbated by stagnant housing construction and soaring rents, as seen in France where 2.7 million people are currently on waiting lists for public housing, according to the Foundation for the Homeless.
Solutions increasingly focus on preventative measures and accessible housing. Owen advocates for increased public housing initiatives, housing market regulation, and income support, emphasizing the success of the “Housing First” model – providing immediate access to stable housing. “Finland is a real success story,” she said, “It reduced its homeless population from about 20,000 to 3,000 over two decades.” Further research into effective homelessness strategies can be found at the European Federation of National Organisations Working with the Homeless.
Officials are urging increased political will and investment in affordable housing to address the escalating crisis and prevent further increases in homelessness across the continent.
