Today, the Commission presents the 2026 European Semester Spring Package, the EU’s annual cycle of policy coordination which sets out policy guidance for Member States, with a particular focus on strengthening the EU’s competitiveness and economic and social resilience.
Key to this year’s package is a comprehensive analysis of housing in country reports and an expanded set of Country Specific Recommendations (CSRs) to provide tailored guidance to member states on housing reforms.
To stem rising housing inequalities and the risk undermining economic competitiveness and social cohesion, the Commission is urging ambitious reforms to boost supply, streamline permitting, and improve affordability.
Each country report now includes a dedicated housing annex, analysing market trends, structural policies, and vulnerabilities- providing a detailed basis for targeted reforms.
Key Priorities
The 2026 Spring Package identifies critical areas for reform, including:
- Increasing housing supply by simplifying permitting and planning procedures
- Mobilising public land and accelerating energy-efficient construction.
- Reforming taxation to enhance affordability.
- Repurposing underused housing stock.
- Scaling up social housing investments.
Commenting on housing as a key priority in the European Semester Spring Package, Commissioner for Energy and Housing, Dan Jørgensen said;
"Too many people across Europe are struggling to find a home they can afford, and too many young people feel locked out of the housing market. We know that solutions exist. Across our Union, cities, regions and governments are testing new approaches that are delivering results on housing affordability. But we need to accelerate progress, invest more boldly, and turn good ideas and plans into homes people can actually live in. Because a home is more than bricks and mortar. It is the foundation of security, opportunity and dignity. Ensuring access to affordable housing is not only a social imperative, it is essential for Europe's future prosperity and competitiveness."
Next steps
Constructive dialogue with the Council and European Parliament on the contents of this Spring Package will follow throughout June. In July, the Council then adopts the final CSRs and Member States are invited to implement them.
Looking ahead, the package sets the stage for the next MFF (2028-2034), with the European Semester helping to shape future investments.
Complementary initiatives such as the European Strategy for Housing Construction, the New European Bauhaus, housing simplification package and a forthcoming Affordable Housing Act will further reinforce efforts to scale up sustainable housing solutions.
More information
Housing in the European Semester, including all housing annexes
Press release on the 2026 European Semester Spring Package
Questions and answers on the 2026 European Semester Spring Package
2026 European Semester Spring Package - Documents
- Publication date
- 3 June 2026
- Author
- Directorate-General for Energy