Over 1.27 Million People Homeless in Europe Each Night

Over 1.27 Million People Homeless in Europe Each Night
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More than 1.27 million people across Europe are sleeping on the streets or in shelters every night, according to an activist from the European Federation of National Organizations Working with the Homeless in Europe, Ruth Owen, on World Homeless Day, as reported by Anadolu Agency.

Owen called the figure a “conservative estimate” that only captures the most visible forms of homelessness. She noted that when considering broader forms—such as staying with family or friends because one has nowhere else to go—nearly 5% of the entire EU population has experienced some form of homelessness in their lifetime.

The crisis has deepened across many major European cities, with the cost of housing being cited as a key driver. Germany currently records the largest homeless population in Europe, with approximately 530,000 people.

As a solution, Owen pointed to the “Housing First” model—which focuses on giving homeless individuals immediate access to stable housing—as one of the most effective approaches. She highlighted Finland as a successful example, having reduced its homeless population significantly over two decades by adopting this model.