Housing as an Investment in Greece and Southern Europe: Private Profit vs Social Value
As housing markets across Europe face increasing pressures due to the financialisation of housing, the clearly tourism-driven demand, and speculative investments, Greece’s housing sector is a unique case-study, but at the same time also a reflection of the broader issues impacting the whole continent. Can housing be treated simultaneously as a profitable investment asset in the “free” market and a human right protected by social policies within the same political agenda? What are the outcomes so far, and what are the alternatives?
In order to address such questions, the Foundation for European Progressive Studies (FEPS), in collaboration with Eteron, Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) and InSocial, have conducted a Policy Study focused on the housing crisis in Greece that includes comparative insights drawn from Southern Europe. The research aims to document the current challenges and suggest policy proposals for building a more inclusive and resilient housing system.
Research Team:
- Dimitra Siatitsa, Postdoctoral Researcher, National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) and National Centre for Social Research (EKKE)
- Simone Tulumello, Assistant Researcher, Institute of Social Sciences, University of Lisbon
- Laura Colini, Urban Policy Advisor
Commenting on the research:
- Irene Tinagli, Member of the European Parliament, S&D Group
- Thomas Maloutas, Professor Emeritus of Social Geography, Department of Geography, Harokopio University Athens and (EKKE)
Panel discussion with:
- Nikos Chrysogelos, Deputy Mayor of Climate Governance and Social Economy, Athens
- Meriç Özgüneş, Project Coordinator, Social Rental Agency of the Major Development Agency of Thessaloniki
- …., Representative of Network for the Right to Housing and the City
- Christos Alefantis, Editor in Chief and Founder, Shedia Magazine
The program includes:
- Presentation of the research findings: Analysis of the outcomes related to contemporary challenges in urban development and social policy.
- Discussions with experts, policymakers, and social partners: Dialogue with professionals and decision-makers to exchange views and promote sustainable solutions.
- Audience participation with questions and contributions: Active involvement of the public through questions and interventions.