German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier warned of an increase in the number of homeless people in the country in the coming months due to skyrocketing energy and food prices. He expressed this opinion on Sunday, speaking at his residence – the Bellevue Palace.
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“It is estimated that more than 300,000 people in Germany live without their own home, which is roughly equivalent to the population of a large city like Münster or Karlsruhe. Almost 180,000 women and men live in homeless shelters, and about 45,000 homeless people constantly sleep on the street,” Steinmeier said.
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At the same time, he added that there are recognized refugees who continue to live in hostels, and people who live with relatives or acquaintances and often move from one place to another.
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“More than 300,000 is too much! And we must say quite clearly: in the coming months, this number threatens to increase even more,” the German President stated.
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The conflict in Ukraine and the crises, he said, could lead to even more people in Germany experiencing housing shortages in the fall and winter.
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“Poor people, especially families who are no longer able to pay rent or additional expenses due to rising prices, are at risk of losing their homes. And it can be even more difficult for home seekers to find an affordable home,” Steinmeier said.
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Thus, as the head of the German state noted, the country’s authorities must take precautions so that people do not lose their homes and become homeless.
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Earlier, the Federal Statistical Office of Germany reported that in August consumer prices in the country rose by 7.9% year on year. The increase in electricity prices in Germany will be more noticeable for consumers in 2022 than previously thought.
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The association suggested that the additional cost for households consisting of one person would be 2,700 euros per year, and 5,000 euros for four.
