Home burglaries in the EU drop sharply over the past decade, most steeply among neighboring countries
Over the past decade, the number of home burglaries across the European Union has fallen significantly, with the steepest decline recorded among Latvia's neighboring countries. Summer holiday season remains the period burglars consider most favorable for break-ins.
While many people head off on summer holiday, empty homes become an attractive target for burglars. A dwelling left unattended for a long stretch, drawn curtains, and a mailbox left unemptied for weeks are all signals that have long told criminals no one is home — traditionally seen as a clear invitation to break in.
Statistics, however, suggest the picture across the European Union has been improving. Over the past decade, the number of home burglaries in the EU overall has fallen sharply. Notably, the steepest drop in this figure has been recorded specifically among Latvia's neighboring countries.
While exact figures and a country-by-country ranking are not detailed, the broader trend points to improved housing security across Europe over recent years. This could reflect a combination of preventive measures and shifting crime patterns across the continent.
Despite the overall positive trend, the period when residents leave en masse for summer holidays continues to be a time when empty homes are especially vulnerable. Drawn curtains and an overflowing mailbox can still signal to would-be intruders that a property is currently unwatched.
For those planning an extended absence, basic precautions are advised — such as asking neighbors or relatives to keep an eye on the mailbox and property, so the home does not appear obviously abandoned from the outside.
