Elif Eralp promises affordable housing in Berlin — Cyprus Mail
In Berlin, Germany, Left Party representative Elif Eralp said after the party’s electoral success that she intends to consistently address the housing crisis. The Left hopes to lead the coalition that will govern the city for the first time, while potential partners — the Social Democrats and the Greens — have expressed readiness for talks.
Eralp said that voters supported a change in policy, an affordable city and a systematic solution to the housing rental problem. This was reported by Cyprus Mail.
Housing expropriation
One of Eralp’s campaign promises was the expropriation of more than 200,000 housing units from corporate landlords. She confirmed that she is not abandoning this idea despite questions about its financing. The Social Democrats estimated the possible cost of such a move at approximately €20 billion.
Eralp said that she seeks to reduce the influence of companies such as Deutsche Wohnen and Vonovia. Vonovia CEO Luka Mucic said the company was ready to discuss ways of overcoming Berlin’s housing shortage, but stressed that socialization does not create new housing.
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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that such policies could have devastating consequences for foreign investment. He also said that he expects swift legislative steps to prevent expropriations.
Coalition talks
At the same time, the Social Democrats and the Greens are demanding that Eralp respond to longstanding accusations of antisemitism against some local branches of the Left Party. These accusations are often linked to criticism of Israel.
Eralp called ensuring the safety of Jews, Muslims and other groups in Berlin an absolute priority. She also said that glorifying violence and terrorism is completely unacceptable. During the campaign, the 45-year-old politician actively used in-person meetings with voters and social media, gaining significant support among young people and those who had not previously voted.
