The Left Party in Saxony is calling for a state-wide strategy to combat homelessness. "Homelessness is a very complex social emergency", states a corresponding motion by the parliamentary group in the state parliament. Even if the municipalities are primarily responsible, the Free State has important tasks to perform.
The aim should therefore be to overcome homelessness by 2030, as envisaged by a resolution of the European Parliament. Prevention services are to be expanded and so-called hidden homelessness - people who do not have their own home and spend the night with family or acquaintances - is to be combated through social work. Funding is also to be provided for social housing.
Tight budget situation forces municipalities to make cuts
"Homelessness is one of the most serious forms of poverty. Those affected live in permanent insecurity and threat, and are very often affected by violence and great physical and psychological suffering," said Juliane Nagel, the parliamentary group's housing policy spokesperson, according to a press release. A state-wide approach to combating homelessness is lacking, especially as the tight budget situation is forcing cities, municipalities and districts to make cuts. Due to the lack of a state budget, many state-funded projects are up in the air.
According to figures from the Federal Statistical Office, more than 4,500 homeless people were housed in facilities in Saxony as of January 1, 2024. A year earlier, there were around 2,900 people. No data is available on the extent of hidden homelessness.
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