The German Federal Minister for Housing, Urban Development and Building, Verena Hubertz, of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), has announced an ambitious goal to eradicate homelessness and housing insecurity in Germany by 2030.
Speaking to the “Rheinische Post” Minister Hubertz emphasized the societal implications of homelessness, stating that in a nation as prosperous as Germany, individuals living on the streets is unacceptable. She affirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the National Action Plan against Homelessness and highlighted ongoing efforts towards achieving its objectives.
The National Action Plan aims to decisively address the issue of homelessness before the end of the decade. A key component of this strategy, according to Minister Hubertz, involves increasing the availability of affordable housing. Initiatives like the “Building Acceleration” program and investments in social housing construction are presented as instrumental in creating the necessary conditions.
While the government is pursuing this plan, opposition voices are calling for more comprehensive measures. Sahra Mirow, a Member of the Bundestag for the Left party, advocates for enshrining the right to housing in the German Basic Law. She expressed concern over the rising number of individuals experiencing homelessness, characterizing it as an “alarming” trend indicative of shortcomings in current housing policies.