site.btaRegional Development Minister Addresses Session of UNECE Committee on Urban Development, Housing Policy, and Land Management

Regional Development and Public Works Minister Ivan Ivanov participated in a ministerial meeting on housing accessibility within the framework of the 86th session of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe's (UNECE) Committee on Urban Development, Housing Policy, and Land Management, his Ministry said Wednesday. During the meeting, Minister Ivanov declared that the housing crisis has deepened, leaving millions of people across Europe without adequate shelter. He added that homelessness is on the rise and that many households are faced with disproportionate housing, energy and maintenance costs. He stated that this is not just a social challenge, but also a challenge to the continent’s ability to fulfil the UN's 2030 programme, emphasizing that housing is a basic human right.

The forum's theme was housing affordability and sustainability. Deputy Minister of Regional Development and Public Works Dora Yankova also participated, alongside representatives from over 200 countries.

Minister Ivanov pointed out the challenges facing Bulgaria, such as its ageing housing stock, with many buildings in poor condition and many vacant homes, particularly in the capital, as well as insufficient social housing. He stressed that the imbalances in Bulgaria's housing market are deepening due to income dynamics and rising housing costs.

Ivanov provided information on the measures taken by the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works to renovate buildings. He emphasized that the Bulgarian government is investing in renovation programmes through the Recovery and Resilience Facility and EU funds that aim to achieve at least 30% savings in primary energy consumption in buildings. These efforts reduce household costs and extend the life of buildings. Between 2015 and 2024, the National Energy Efficiency Programme in Bulgaria improved over 2,000 multi-family residential buildings, thereby reducing citizens' energy bills and securing funds from the national budget to continue the renovation.