Housing Crisis and Social Security: Dortmund's Social Policy in January 2026

Housing Crisis, Security and Social Policy in Dortmund: A Summary of January 2026

In a city like Dortmund, which is facing increasing housing shortages, growing social divisions, and a rising influx of refugees, social and housing policy play a central role. January 2026 brought significant innovations, debates, and investments in Dortmund that redefined the city's approach to homelessness, social security, and healthcare. The introduction of a new fee model for accommodations, enhanced security measures, and investments in the social sector were particularly in focus.

Housing Reserve Program and Fee Model: A New Funding Model

In January 2026, the city of Dortmund set a milestone with the introduction of an ordinance for the placement of refugees, homeless people, and those without a permanent residence. Linked to this ordinance was a new fee model that imposes financial obligations on self-payers. The fees range from 15 euros per day in emergency sleeping accommodations to up to 3,000 euros per month in transitional housing facilities.

This model has faced criticism, particularly from the SPD, GRÜNE & Volt, and the LINKE & Tierschutzpartei, who advocated for more tiered and fair fee models. Similar models already exist in other cities such as Bochum and Cologne, which appear to be more socially acceptable. Nevertheless, the introduction in Dortmund is necessary to counter the rising costs in homeless assistance, which amounted to 25.7 million euros in 2025.

Security Strategy and Street Work: A Delicate Balance

The city of Dortmund's security strategy received a new impetus in 2026 through the master plan "Kommunale Sicherheit 2.0". A survey among 107 homeless individuals showed that many had experienced violence – a topic that must be addressed in security strategies. At the same time, the night café at Schwanenwall was expanded, and street workers were deployed as part of the special team "Order and Security".

Yet tensions emerged here as well: increased controls led to drug-dependent individuals retreating to the margins, making them harder to reach for care. The question of how to align security and social inclusion remains open.

Health Risks and Prevention: The Dark Side of the Housing Crisis

The health situation of the homeless population in Dortmund is alarming. Reports of deaths due to hypothermia and long-term damage such as organ failure or neurological impairments show the need for preventive healthcare. GRÜNEN & Volt and the LINKE & Tierschutzpartei therefore called for stronger medical support and a formal winter emergency aid concept.

Yet another problem arises here: the number of unreported cases is high due to a lack of follow-up care. The city is therefore planning a dashboard in collaboration with the Dortmund Statistics Office to make the situation more transparent and to respond more effectively.

Investments and the Future: The Construction Agenda 2026

While Dortmund is dealing with the current housing crisis, the city is also looking to the future. The Construction Agenda 2026 provides for investments in social and educational facilities with a volume of around 5 billion euros. Kindergartens, schools, and community centers will be renovated, made accessible, and optimized for energy efficiency.

These investments are partly funded by funds from the state program LuKIFG NRW, which provides around 357.9 million euros in 2026. The aim is to strengthen the social fabric in Dortmund and improve quality of life in the long term.

Conclusion: A Policy in Transition

January 2026 marks a decisive turning point in Dortmund's social and housing policy. With new funding models, enhanced security measures, and investments in the social sector, the city is pursuing an active, preventive policy. However, the path is rocky: the balance between security and social inclusion, between costs and justice remains a challenge.

In the coming months, it will be particularly important to monitor and, if necessary, adjust the social consequences of the new fee models. In addition, the city must ensure that health prevention for homeless people does not fall into the background. Only through a comprehensive and coordinated approach can Dortmund sustainably combat the housing crisis and social inequality.