Basque Government studies Vienna housing model for regional reform

The Basque Government is exploring the implementation of the Vienna housing model to address regional housing shortages. Housing Minister Denis Itxaso recently visited Vienna to study its public housing system, where approximately 60% of the population lives in municipal or subsidized cooperative housing. The Basque administration is considering creating a social fund to reserve land for social investors and may raise the annual income limit for protected housing access to €60,000.

This policy discussion occurs amidst an intensifying electoral period in Euskadi, with municipal and regional elections scheduled for May 2027. Political leaders and commentators emphasize that while electoral maneuvering is increasing, core issues such as housing, industrial pacts, and public education remain the primary concerns for citizens.

Gabriel Arrúe, leader of the Socialist Youth of Euskadi, noted that legislative efforts to combat rising housing prices face challenges in the Spanish Parliament due to the necessity of negotiating with parties like the PNV and Junts, which he suggests hold more conservative views on housing policy.