This paper from a symposium on shut out youth identifies some of the key social, cultural, and economic issues that must be considered to understand the phenomenon of youth homelessness. Researchers and practitioners address the problem of Europe's unmet housing needs. The factors which contribute to these needs and problems are the following: (1) demographic changes and changing family structures; (2) failures of institutional care and protection; (3) inadequate housing policies; (4) poorly formulated legal codes; (5) changing expectations of youth; (6) discrimination and exclusion of young people; (7) unemployment; and (8) deficient welfare policies. All governments of Europe are encouraged to develop comprehensive policies on welfare and housing which take into consideration the needs of young people. Full recognition should be given to youth employment problems which constitute a major cause of homelessness and general social disorganization in this population. (VM)