Newsroom
A recent European report has shed light on a concerning issue in Cyprus: nearly one in five households is struggling to keep their homes warm. According to a study by the European Committee of Social Rights, Cyprus has the second-highest percentage of people unable to afford adequate home heating in Europe.
The report, titled “Social Rights and the Cost of Living Crisis,” uses Eurostat data from 2022 and points to the rising cost of living as a key factor. Cyprus, with 19.2% of its population unable to heat their homes, ranks only behind Bulgaria, which faces an even higher percentage. Other countries like Greece, Lithuania, and Portugal are also struggling, but Cyprus is among the most affected.
The report highlights how energy costs are rising faster than household incomes, making it even harder for people to meet basic needs like heating. The situation has led to growing concerns over energy poverty, where families are forced to choose between heating their homes and other essential expenses.
Overdue debts also remain a significant challenge. Cyprus is one of the European countries with the highest rates of overdue rent or utility bills, with 14.3% of households struggling to pay their housing-related expenses. The numbers reveal a growing divide, where many people face mounting financial pressure due to rising housing and energy costs.
Efforts to tackle these issues have been made, though they have not been enough to ease the burden. Cyprus has introduced housing subsidies aimed at helping young couples and individuals, but the question remains whether these efforts are enough to support the many struggling families.
The European Committee of Social Rights, which monitors the implementation of social rights across Europe, has urged governments to take stronger action. Their recommendations include adjusting social security benefits to keep pace with inflation and strengthening social housing programs. For Cyprus, this means investing in affordable housing and ensuring that vulnerable households receive targeted support.
As the cost of living continues to rise, Cypriots are being urged to take advantage of any available assistance while advocating for more robust policies to address energy poverty.
*With informtion from CNA
