Tenerife Officials Unveil Strategy to Tackle Youth Housing and Employment Challenges
Tenerife’s government has launched a comprehensive strategy to empower local youth by prioritizing affordable housing, modernizing the job market, and increasing funding for essential social initiatives.
Empowering the next generation has become the top priority for Tenerife’s political leaders. In a rare show of unity, the Cabildo recently passed a formal declaration ahead of International Youth Day, acknowledging the urgent need to help young people build stable lives despite the challenges of high housing costs and job insecurity.
The Cabildo’s new strategy identifies housing as the biggest barrier to independence. To address this, the island plans to work with other government bodies to increase the supply of affordable rentals. They are also looking to strengthen financial support, including direct rental subsidies and specialized mortgage options for young residents.
Beyond housing, the plan aims to modernize the local job market. The goal is to connect young workers with Tenerife’s growing industries, such as technology, aerospace, audiovisual production, and green energy. By focusing on these sectors, officials hope to create better jobs, keep local talent on the island, and ensure that opportunities are available in rural and mid-altitude areas, not just in major hubs.
The declaration also emphasizes the importance of youth participation in government. It calls for more inclusive leisure activities—ensuring accessibility for those with disabilities—and promotes programs that encourage young people to engage with the island’s natural heritage.
Finally, the Cabildo is calling on the Canary Islands government to increase funding for youth initiatives. This additional support is intended to help local municipalities and the island government better address health, employment, and housing needs, ensuring that Tenerife’s youth can build their futures at home without feeling forced to leave.