The Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB), based at 55 avenue Kléber in Paris, operates as Europe’s oldest multilateral development bank, having been established in 1956. Its original purpose was to address the need for resettlement solutions for refugees and displaced persons in post-war Europe. Over time, its remit has grown to include broad support for social cohesion across its 43 member states, separating it entirely from the Council of Europe while remaining closely aligned in mission.
As of 2020, the CEB managed assets valued at 28 billion euros and typically offers loans that can cover up to 40% of a project’s costs. Roughly 30% of its annual financing targets social and affordable housing initiatives. Its projects range from supporting affordable rentals in Slovenia and large-scale housing efforts in Germany, to expanding partnerships in France, such as through the “Alliance européenne pour un logement sociale durable et inclusif”—a collaboration with Banque des Territoires and the European Investment Bank aimed specifically at accelerating social housing construction.
Recent CEB financing has enabled the creation and renovation of thousands of housing units, such as a €100 million loan in Berlin in 2024 for 1,394 new units, as well as multi-million-euro projects in Moldova and Lithuania focusing on both affordable housing and energy efficiency.
CEB’s structure is characterized by financial independence and decision-making autonomy. It collaborates directly with public agencies, local authorities, and non-profit housing providers to address acute social needs, including those of low-income families, migrants, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.