Mazzeo: Europe’s First Social EU Brick House Needs Resources

Tuscany Takes on Housing Crisis and research space: A European Perspective

Addressing the escalating housing crisis and bolstering the European research space are critical priorities for regions across Europe. Tuscany is actively engaging with the European union to tackle these challenges head-on. On May 15, 2025, the President of the Tuscany Regional Council, Antonio Mazzeo, participated in the plenary session of the European Committee of the Regions in Brussels, emphasizing the need for collaborative strategies and lasting investments.

Bringing Europe Closer to Tuscan Territories

Tuscany is committed to bridging the gap between the European Union and its local communities. A delegation of over twenty Tuscan mayors and administrators, representing diverse municipalities from San Giuliano Terme to Palaia, joined President Mazzeo in Brussels. The mission’s goal was to ensure that local needs are heard at the European level and that municipalities can effectively access European resources.

Pro Tip: Small municipalities often struggle with the complexities of European funding applications. Direct engagement and support can definitely help them overcome these hurdles and secure vital resources.

“The purpose of the mission is clear and simple: bring the European Union closer to our territories,” explained Mazzeo. This initiative aims to bring local perspectives to Brussels and to help municipalities secure the resources they need.

Addressing the Housing Crisis: A Social Imperative

The European Committee of the Regions approved an opinion on the housing crisis, highlighting the urgent need for action. While the European Commission has opened the possibility of using cohesion funds for housing, Tuscany advocates for a more thorough approach.Housing should be viewed as a fundamental right, not merely a commodity.

Mazzeo emphasized, “We live in a complicated time, in wich the house is frequently enough considered a commodity. The house is, instead, the first brick of a social Europe.”

tuscany has already taken steps to address issues related to short-term rentals, recognizing their impact on housing affordability. The region is implementing regulations to balance tourism with the right to housing.

Did You Know? In cities like Florence and Siena,the rise of short-term rentals has considerably increased housing costs for residents,making it harder for locals to find affordable homes.

Strengthening the European research Space

The advancement of a robust European Research Space is essential for Europe’s competitiveness and strategic autonomy. Discussions with Commissioner Ekaterina Zahalieva focused on the need for sustained European investments in research, innovation, and training.

President Mazzeo argued that member states cannot shoulder the financial burden alone, especially when facing the challenges of green and digital transitions and competition from global powerhouses like the United States and China. He pointed to Pisa as a model, highlighting its ecosystem that combines universities, research centers, and businesses.

“The European research space is one of the great bets of our time – not only to grow knowledge, but to defend competitiveness, strategic autonomy and Europe’s cohesion,” Mazzeo stated.

The delegation mentioned that Pisa needs European networks, structural funds, and shared programming to express all its potential.

Municipalities Involved

Several municipalities from various provinces in Tuscany were represented in the delegation:

• Province of Arezzo: Bucine, Castelfranco Pian di Scò, Cavriglia
• Province of Livorno: Cecina
• Metropolitan City of Florence: Slab in Signa, Rignano, Scarperia and San Piero
• Province of Pisa: Bientina, Calcinaia, Capannoli, Montopoli Val d’Arno, Montescudaio, Palaia, Pontedera, Santa Luce, San Giuliano Terme, Vecchiano, Volterra
• Province of Prato: Montemurlo, Poggio a Caiano

The Role of Cohesion Funds

Cohesion funds are crucial for addressing regional disparities and promoting economic, social, and territorial cohesion across the European Union. These funds can be strategically used to support housing initiatives, research projects, and infrastructure development.

Here’s a comparison of how cohesion funds can be utilized in different sectors:

Sector	Potential Use of cohesion funds	Expected Outcome
Housing	Affordable housing projects, renovation of existing buildings	Increased housing availability, improved living conditions
Research & Innovation	Funding research institutions, supporting innovative startups	Technological advancements, economic growth
Infrastructure	Development of transportation networks, digital infrastructure	Enhanced connectivity, improved business surroundings

Looking Ahead: Sustainable and Equitable Development

The future of Europe depends on addressing critical issues like the housing crisis and fostering a vibrant research environment.Tuscany’s engagement with the European Union reflects a commitment to sustainable and equitable development.

By bringing local voices to the european stage and advocating for strategic investments, Tuscany is contributing to a more inclusive and prosperous future for all its citizens.

Pro Tip: Engaging local communities in the planning and implementation of European projects can lead to more effective and sustainable outcomes.

European research space “cannot remain an abstract promise. It must become a concrete tool to strengthen the territories, fill the gaps and do not leave anyone behind. Only thus europe can remain the protagonist. In the world, and in the life of its communities”.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

what are cohesion funds?

Cohesion funds are financial instruments used by the European Union to reduce regional disparities and promote economic, social, and territorial cohesion across member states.

Why is the housing crisis a priority for Tuscany?

The housing crisis is a priority because access to affordable housing is considered a fundamental right. Tuscany aims to ensure that all its citizens have access to safe and affordable housing.

How can municipalities benefit from engaging with the European Union?

Municipalities can benefit by accessing European funding opportunities, participating in policy discussions, and sharing best practices with other regions.

What is the European Research Space?

The European Research Space is an initiative to create a unified and open market for research and innovation in Europe, promoting collaboration and knowledge sharing among member states.

What steps has Tuscany taken regarding short-term rentals?

Tuscany has implemented regulations to address the impact of short-term rentals on housing affordability, aiming to balance tourism with the right to housing for residents.