Summary of the project
The [Y] Factor: Housing for You[th] exhibition highlighted the housing challenges young people face across Europe through five key themes: affordability, living standards, tourism pressures, rural challenges, and discrimination. For this project, we conducted research on each theme, gathering data, best practices from local and regional authorities as well as testimonies from young people with firsthand experience. The exhibition, displayed in Foyer 5 of the JDE building from 2 to 11 February, presented data, testimonies, and solutions in an accessible format. A launch reception on 3 February invited visitors to learn about the project, exchange ideas and contribute their perspectives to the ongoing conversation on youth housing in the EU. The work behind the exhibition was also shared as posts on social media, to engage wider youth audiences and encourage participation.
Structure
The exhibition was structured as an engaging, step-by-step journey, highlighting both the dire situation and providing some hope. Visitors first encounter the research boards presenting comparative data, best practices from regions across Europe, and contextual information on each of the thematic angles. Next comes the so called "Shock factor", a video featuring digital quizzes and data visualisations that challenge assumptions and spark reflection. They then encounter five youth testimonies, displayed on a vertical screen, each offering a personal perspective on the housing crisis. The exhibition concludes with a suggestion wall where visitors can leave ideas on sticky notes, and a QR code with a research summary for those interested in diving deeper. The content was also translated into accessible Instagram posts and reels to reach young audiences.
Results
The exhibition was successfully launched with the visibility reception on 3 February, where we welcomed over 130 visitors in the form of institution staff, members, and external visitors. The occasion was marked by remarks from CoR President Kata Tüttő, CoR Secretary General Petr Blížkovský, EuroCities Secretary General André Sobczak, Housing Europe Secretary General Sorcha Edwards and UN-Habitat Office for EU Chief of Office Dyfed Aubrey. We were also happy to welcome MEP Alícia Homs Ginel, member of the Special Committee on the Housing Crisis in the European Union, and give her a tour of the exhibition. The reception offered an opportunity for trainees, staff, members and external visitors to discuss the project and the topic with each other and create new connections.
Furthermore, we were very pleased to welcome Glenn Micallef, European Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport, and Rareș Voicu, President of the European Youth Forum, on 2 February and give them a tour of the exhibition. Additionally, we were invited to present the project to the CoR members at four commissions – CIVEX, SEDEC, ENVE, and COTER – and to staff at the ASTnet_infopod managed by the Network of CoR assistants.
