Deputy Minister Asparuhov: We need to work together to end homelessness by 2030

"We all need to work together to end homelessness by 2030 by promoting human and housing-oriented policies."

This was stated by Deputy Minister of Regional Development and Public Works Stefan Asparuhov. He took part in an online round table meeting of the European Platform against Homelessness. The event is part of the program of the French Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

The European Platform against Homelessness was launched in June 2021 with the "Lisbon Declaration" in order to strengthen cooperation between EU member states in the process of tackling homelessness. The platform is supported by the European Commission and brings together EU institutions and bodies, social partners and civil society organisations. The aim is to ensure a common policy of the countries in the fight against homelessness.

"The problem of reducing the level of homelessness can be solved by introducing decisive action plans and innovative approaches that are based on the idea of housing as a fundamental human right and accordingly develop broader social and work paths for integration," said Stefan Asparuhov.

He was adamant that the European Platform against Homelessness, together with the European Parliament's resolution, was a starting point for creating a favorable environment for policies for access to adequate housing and improving the strategic framework. The aim is to introduce changes to ensure access to housing, as well as to create mechanisms to provide housing assistance to people and families from vulnerable groups.

In addition, Bulgaria's membership in the UN, the Council of Europe and the EU and the signed agreements create obligations in the field of housing policy to provide quality housing - safe, energy efficient and with good physical access and provide affordable housing for all social groups, it became clear from the words of the Deputy Minister.

"We believe that the opportunities for sharing good practices provided through the Platform for Combating Homelessness will provide a working tool for more focused and successful actions in this area," Asparuhov concluded.