Making EU funds work for affordable housing: lessons from Regions and Cities

Models in comparison, solutions in action! The side event takes place against the backdrop of the European Affordable Housing Plan, marking a shift from a chronic housing crisis towards an unprecedented European response. It aims to explore how diverse housing models and experiences can help shape a more coherent, effective and forward-looking European approach to affordable housing. In line with the EURegionsWeek 2026 motto “Strong Regions, Strong Europe”, the initiative puts Regions and Cities at the centre, examining how EU funds and policies can be turned into concrete housing solutions, with a focus on administrative capacity, multi-level governance and effective implementation. Bringing together a strategic partnership comprising the Sicilian Region, the Abruzzo Region, the Campania Region, the City of Vienna, Aedes and Housing Europe, together with a member of the Housing Task Force at the European Commission, the session offers a comparative perspective on complementary housing models. By sharing experiences across different contexts, the discussion will identify success factors, transferable approaches and practical recommendations for more effective, scalable and inclusive housing policies across Europe.