The rising tide of youth homelessness in European cities is a deeply concerning trend, fueled by recent crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the escalating cost of living, and the lack of affordable housing. To effectively address this issue and break the cycle of chronic homelessness, it is imperative for local, national, and EU governments to collaborate and develop ambitious strategic plans.
Data on youth homelessness at the EU level is limited, with reported numbers varying widely across cities. However, a recent report from Eurocities, titled “Ending youth homelessness in cities,” sheds light on the situation. Based on data from 29 European cities, the report identifies the main drivers of youth homelessness as substance misuse (96% of cities) and health issues, including mental health difficulties (79%). Other significant factors include domestic abuse, family breakdown, and trauma (79%), and the challenges faced by foster care leavers (96%).
The various crises Europe has recently faced have also contributed to the surge in youth homelessness. Lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in job losses, particularly among young people in precarious employment, making it difficult for them to pay bills. Record numbers of young people relied on food aid and dropped out of school, further increasing their vulnerability to homelessness. The sharp rise in inflation and the subsequent cost of living crisis have also been cited by nearly all cities as major contributing factors.
Despite the myriad of challenges, city governments are implementing successful initiatives to support young people facing homelessness. In Lyon Metropole, for instance, we have increased the availability of social and affordable housing for young people. We have also regulated the private housing market, including short-term tourist rentals, which can push vulnerable people to the city outskirts. Our Logis Jeune project supports young people coming of age and care leavers to live independently through a Housing First approach, and the “one roof, one job” project tackles both employment and housing issues faced by young people with very low resources. We have established a Youth Solidarity Income, “Revenu de solidarité jeune”, for people under 25 who are ineligible for state assistance. Temporary accommodation is also provided to young people with migrant backgrounds.
However, while cities are making progress, we firmly believe that lasting change can only be achieved through a collaborative effort involving all levels of government. National and EU strategies must prioritize accessible funding for cities to implement effective local projects that make a tangible difference. Affordable housing should be a key priority for the European community, with investments in social support and regulation of the property market. The significance of homelessness should be reflected in mainstream legislation related to education, migration, and health. National and EU policies must support the development of more affordable and social housing options for young people.
At the EU level, cities’ involvement in the European Platform on Combatting Homelessness needs to be strengthened. It is crucial to establish a clear EU methodology for data collection on homelessness throughout Europe. Additionally, a youth-focused approach must be incorporated into all EU, national, and local homelessness strategies.
As the European elections draw near, it is time for decisive action. The upcoming EU mandate presents an opportunity to review and enhance the union’s policies to support young people at risk of homelessness. The next European institutions must actively involve cities in this process, empowering them to play a vital role in ending youth homelessness by 2030.
