Youth, Disability, and the Right to Accessible Housing: A Voice from the European Parliament

By Young People’s Network Member Luigi Azzarrone 

Last month, I had the privilege of speaking at the European Parliament in Strasbourg during the 2025 European Youth Event (EYE2025). Representing the Young People’s Network of the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP), I joined a powerful panel hosted by the European Disability Forum to discuss a topic that is often overlooked, yet central to dignity and autonomy: Accessible and Affordable Housing for People with Disabilities.

It was one of the best experiences of my life

Standing in front of a diverse audience of young Europeans with disabilities, I realised the weight of the opportunity. I wasn’t just speaking for myself, but for every young person navigating life with a chronic illness or disability who deserves to live independently, safely, and equally.

Two Words That Matter: Accessibility and Affordability

My key message to policymakers was simple: accessibility and affordability go hand in hand, not only in housing, but in every aspect of life. Words alone aren’t enough—we need real action”. Housing that meets accessibility standards is already rare, especially in older or rural buildings. Add the challenge of rising housing prices, and we find ourselves locking out people who most need supportive environments.

From Data to Stories, and Stories to Policy

Data shared during the workshop showed that 69% of people with disabilities live in urban or industrial areas, often because those are the only places with newer, more accessible buildings. But this creates a new problem: those newer homes are often unaffordable. For someone who suddenly finds themselves in need of an accessible space, after a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, there’s often no clear information or support-What are your rights? Are there financial supports available? Where do you turn?

Concrete Ideas for Real Change

At the event, we didn’t stop at sharing concerns. We proposed tangible solutions:

• A European certification system to clearly identify accessible housing.
• A dedicated EU fund to support property owners in making accessibility improvements or to provide housing discounts to people with disabilities.
• More investment in adapting existing rural houses, allowing people to stay in their communities rather than be forced into cities they can’t afford or don’t want to live in.

Inclusion Begins With Listening

Participating in EYE2025 reminded me that Europe is more than a set of institutions. It’s a living community, built on common needs, diverse cultures, and shared decisions. Engaging with peers from across the continent made me truly feel part of a union.

As a scientist and advocate living with MS, I’ve learned that progress happens when people living with these realities daily are truly heard.

Because accessibility is not a luxury. It’s a right