European Parliament convenes to discuss EU budget and housing crisis

The European Parliament is convening a plenary session in Strasbourg from October 5 to October 8. The agenda focuses on several critical issues, including the cost of living, the housing crisis, and energy policy.

A primary topic of discussion is the new Multiannual Financial Framework for the European Union covering the 2028–2034 period. MEPs are set to discuss negotiations regarding this budget, with the Parliament having previously requested an increase of approximately 10% compared to the European Commission's initial proposal. Key priorities for the budget include competitiveness, defense, agriculture, and cohesion policy.

Regarding the cost of living, lawmakers will address the housing crisis, noting that EU housing prices have risen by 60% since 2013. Discussions will include legislative proposals for affordable housing and local authority interventions. Additionally, the session will tackle energy poverty and the utilization of the Social Climate Fund, which is slated to provide 86.7 billion euros between 2026 and 2032 to support households.