Ladies and gentlemen, the housing situation in Europe is deteriorating more and more. Real estate speculation drives up prices and makes affordable housing almost impossible for many people. Apartments are bought by investors, left empty or resold with enormous profit. Meanwhile, more and more people are struggling to find affordable housing. The rich get richer and the poor get poorer. The EU should take targeted action to curb speculation on housing, for example by tightening regulations against vacancy and speculative taxes. Anyone who buys real estate without using it or resells it disproportionately quickly should have to pay higher taxes. In addition, public housing projects could be supported to make housing more affordable. Housing must not be a luxury, but must remain affordable for all people. If the EU invests wisely, it could significantly improve the current housing situation. Sincerely, Oscar Strasser 2500 Baden, Lower Austria