EMN inform on effective distribution of accommodation centres and relationship with local communities

A new EMN report provides a comparative overview of how 22 EMN Member Countries and Serbia are working on the effective and efficient distribution of reception centres for asylum seekers within their countries and how they cooperate with local communities to foster integration. The inform “Distribution of international protection accommodation centres and relationship management with local communities”, tracks developments up to February 2025. It provides insights into national approaches to planning, communication and support measures, and identifies common challenges and good practices.

Managing effective and efficient distribution to support reception and integration

The report examines two specific types of distribution: 1) of asylum seekers and 2) of reception centres. Fourteen EMN Member Countries and Serbia distribute asylum seekers according to clear criteria, whilst seventeen aim for an equitable distribution of reception centres across the country.

These distribution criteria take into account such aspects as individual needs including health status, family status and vulnerability. The number and capacity of reception centres, infrastructure, proximity to public services, as well as demographic, economic and social factors in the host regions also play a part in decision making.

The design and application of the criteria vary considerably between countries. France uses population-based allocation keys, whilst Germany has a tax-based allocation system. Some countries have introduced matching algorithms to support more effective and efficient allocation and integration.

Relationship with local communities varies across EMN Countries

Only five countries – Austria, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland and Sweden – have formal communication plans at national or regional level to support the establishment of new reception centres. Others rely on guidance or outreach activities on a case-by-case basis. The format, frequency and targeting of communication efforts vary between countries.

Despite this, most countries collaborate with local authorities and elected representatives before and after a centre opens. Belgium, Ireland and the Netherlands have tailored activities prior to a centre opening. The Belgian Federal Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (Fedasil) distributes information leaflets and organises information sessions. In Ireland, the focus is on integration, whilst in the Netherlands makes special efforts to promote involvement at the local level. Sixteen countries – including the Czech Republic, Estonia, Slovenia and Serbia – collaborate directly with local communities also during the period a centre is being established.

Financial support for local actors and non-governmental organisations

In some EMN Countries, non-governmental organisations and local actors receive additional support. Seven countries, including Sweden, have mechanisms for allocating additional resources to local support initiatives, including funding for healthcare, education and public transport.

Ireland, for example, has introduced three specific funding programmes to support non-governmental organisations and interest groups. Croatia and the Slovak Republic utilise financial support from the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF).

Challenges remain, but good examples are driving progress forward

The majority of EMN Member Countries and Serbia cite challenges in cooperating with local communities and interest groups when establishing new reception centres. This is particularly the case in areas with limited previous experience of multicultural societies. Common reactions include resistance from the local population and a lack of political will. These challenges may affect integration in the long term.

Despite the remaining challenges, positive examples are also highlighted such as:

• Initiatives in the form of roadmaps and working groups to support the opening of reception centres.
• Initiatives in the form of cultural events, training and the recruitment of local staff to promote community involvement and integrate reception centres into local life.
• Financial support for municipalities where reception centres have been opened.

Fourteen EMN Countries consider communication and coordination with local stakeholders to be crucial for achieving positive integration outcomes.