From 23 – 29 March 2026, communities across Europe and around the world will mobilise for Housing Action Days 2026, a global week of action calling for the right to housing on a liveable planet.
Tenant unions, housing justice movements, climate organisations and civil society groups are joining forces to demand affordable, secure and climate-resilient homes for all.
Why this moment matters
Across Europe, housing has become increasingly unaffordable and insecure. Rents and housing prices continue to rise, while public and social housing remain insufficient in many countries. At the same time, millions of people live in homes that are poorly insulated, damp or unable to withstand extreme temperatures.
These challenges are unfolding in the middle of intersecting crises. Rising living costs, energy poverty and accelerating climate impacts are putting growing pressure on households, particularly low-income communities, tenants, migrants, women and young people.
Housing is a fundamental human right. Ensuring access to decent, affordable and climate-resilient homes is essential for people’s wellbeing, public health and economic stability.
Homes at the center of climate action
Buildings account for around 40% of energy consumption in the EU, and nearly three quarters are energy inefficient.
This means our homes sit at the centre of both the problem and the solution. Deep, people-centred renovations can reduce emissions, lower energy bills and improve living conditions, especially for households most affected by the cost-of-living crisis.
But renovation must work for people, not against them. Policies must prioritise the worst-performing homes, while including strong tenant protections, rent safeguards and social support so that energy upgrades do not lead to displacement.
The National Building Renovation Plans (NBRPs) currently being prepared by EU countries will shape how homes are renovated over the coming decade. These plans must ensure that the transition delivers fair housing and fair energy for all.
Cities at the forefront
Cities will play a key role in making fair and climate-resilient housing a reality. By investing in building renovation, strengthening tenant protections and prioritising the worst-performing homes, local governments can ensure that climate policies improve people’s everyday lives.
These conversations are also taking place across urban policy spaces in Europe. During the Urban Future conference 24-27/03, the Build Better Lives campaign will be present to connect with city leaders, activists and practitioners and exchange ideas on inclusive and climate-resilient housing solutions.
A global week of mobilisations
Throughout the week, communities and organisations around Europe and the globe will organise rallies, assemblies, creative protests and local initiatives to bring attention to the links between housing, energy poverty and climate change.
These actions send a clear message: homes should serve people and communities, not speculation and profits.
Find below the Actions Map 2026.
The map is being frequently updated. Zoom in to discover the actions happening all around the globe!
Notes:
- More details on Housing Action Days 2026
- Contacts: Margaux Barrett, Funding Fairer Futures Communications Coordinator, CAN Europe: margaux.barrett@caneurope.org
Marianna Plomariti, Communications Coordinator, CAN Europe: marianna.plomariti@caneurope.org