Vienna Mayor Michael Ludwig EU Housing Policy

Vienna's Mayor Pushes for EU Housing Policy Reforms Amid Rent Surge

Vienna's Mayor Michael Ludwig is pushing for stronger EU involvement in housing policy, as two-thirds of the city's apartments, classified as Altbau, face steep rent increases despite regulated reference rents. Ludwig aims to prioritize affordable housing at the EU level, with the city serving as an international model.

Ludwig has been vocal about location surcharges in Altbau apartments, advocating for a uniform tenancy law and a fair, transparent system for tenants and landlords. His efforts align with EU Commissioner Dan Jørgensen's plans. Jørgensen, the first EU Commissioner for Housing, is set to unveil a European plan for affordable housing on December 17, 2025.

To develop housing policy demands, Ludwig has gathered representatives from European countries, the European Commission, and the Council of the EU. Following the plan's presentation, Jørgensen will visit Vienna to study the city's model of affordable housing firsthand. Ludwig's goal is clear: to ensure housing is considered a fundamental right, not a speculative asset.

With housing costs surging across EU member countries, Ludwig's lobbying for greater city involvement in EU policymaking, an expert group on housing, and reform of EU state aid rules gains significance. Vienna, with its over 700 cases of remunicipalization across 20 countries, stands as an international model against privatization, demonstrating the potential of strong housing policies.