Homelessness is a growing European crisis driven by housing unaffordability and lack of political will, requiring systemic change beyond emergency aid.
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Homeless individuals are seeking shelter across Europe, from city squares to major airports, highlighting that local and national authorities are failing to address this growing social problem, which stems from an unaffordable housing market combined with a lack of political will and institutional support. This issue casts a shadow over Europe amidst rising inequality, material deprivation, and violence. While some individuals receive basic aid, they fundamentally require physical, psychological, and social support. Homelessness is compounded by issues like theft of belongings and identification documents, hindering access to support programs.
In Greece, the lack of a national homeless registry and high housing costs place significant strain on citizens. Current social policies are described as fragmented “firefighting” measures rather than comprehensive prevention strategies. Experts note that existing shelters primarily manage extreme poverty visibility rather than fulfilling the right to housing, often leading to cycles of dependency. The increasing reliance on NGOs for services reflects a neoliberal shift where the state acts more as a regulator and funder than a guarantor of social rights.
Across Europe, there is a lack of common recording criteria, making it difficult to accurately assess the scale of homelessness, though experts warn the trend is upward. Organizations advocate for standardized classifications like ETHOS. Successful models, such as Finland’s “Housing First” approach—providing permanent housing first followed by tailored support—are cited as positive examples, contrasting with ongoing crises in places like Italy and Greece where authorities often blame each other. The European Union’s goal to eliminate homelessness by 2030 is deemed unrealistic without a dedicated housing portfolio and stronger national strategies focused on prevention and sustainable solutions.
