Ensuring Affordable Housing for Civil Servants in Tourist Areas

What is the problem?

In many touristic regions, essential public employees - such as teachers, healthcare staff, and police officers - struggle to find affordable housing near their workplaces. This affects service quality, staff retention, and the functioning of local institutions.

What should be done?

Municipalities should reserve or develop a small stock of affordable housing units for public-sector employees in high-demand areas. Alternatively, national governments could offer housing allowances or incentives to landlords who maintain fair rents for essential workers. EU funding programmes could support pilot initiatives under social inclusion and territorial cohesion policies.

Who should act?

National and local governments, with potential financial or policy support from the European Commission through relevant EU funds (e.g., ESF+, ERDF).

What impact will it have?

Guaranteeing affordable housing for civil servants will ensure that essential services remain fully staffed and accessible. It will also promote social stability, attract skilled professionals to local communities, and reinforce citizens’ trust in public institutions.