Michailidou: Demographic and housing policy key to Europe’s survival
Social Cohesion and Family Minister Domna Michailidou emphasized that demographic policy and affordable housing are essential to Europe’s long-term survival, during her address at the EU Council of Ministers meeting held on Thursday in Luxembourg.
“In 2021, with the European Action Plan, we laid the foundations for addressing poverty and ensuring social cohesion,” Michailidou said. “Now, our responsibility is to move forward in a more targeted way—integrating digital transformation, the green transition, and gender equality into our demographic policies.”
Stressing that “ambition alone is not enough,” the minister called for continuous policy adaptation to meet real societal needs, proposing a revised European Action Plan centered on social cohesion and sustainability.
One of her key demands was for strong European action to ensure affordable housing. She proposed that the European Environmental Fund allocate more resources for energy upgrades, particularly to support low-income families.
Michailidou also urged recognition of digital access as a fundamental social right, especially for young people. She emphasized the need for policies that ensure income security and dignified employment as a core part of Europe's demographic strategy.
On the sidelines of the Council, the Greek minister held bilateral meetings with French Commissioner for Equality Hadja Lahbib, Danish Minister Sophie Haestorp Andersen, and representatives from Lithuania and Ireland. Discussions focused on joint strategies for sustainable development and the shared demographic priorities of their upcoming joint EU Council presidency.
Michailidou’s statements reflect growing concern in the EU over declining birth rates, rising housing costs, and the need to align social policy with Europe's green and digital transitions.
