The European Migration Network (EMN) has published a new inform titled “Distribution of international protection accommodation centres and relationship management with local communities.” The publication analyses how 23 EMN Member Countries and Serbia distribute accommodation centres and engage with local stakeholders. Covering developments up to February 2025, it presents national approaches to planning, communication, and community engagement, alongside good practices and challenges.
The inform explores how countries manage both the distribution of international protection applicants and the distribution of accommodation centres. Fourteen EMN Member Countries and Serbia distribute applicants according to defined criteria. As far as distribution of accommodation centres is concerned, seventeen Member Countries and Serbia distribute them within their territory. These criteria include population size, infrastructure, proximity to services, and individual needs such as vulnerability, health or family status. Some countries use population- or tax-based allocation systems, while others have introduced algorithmic matching tools to improve outcomes.
Community engagement approaches differ widely. Only five countries have formal communication plans for opening new centres, while others adapt their approach to each situation. However, most countries engage with local authorities and representatives before or upon opening new accommodation centres, and sixteen also involve local communities. Examples include Belgium’s information sessions and flyers for residents, Ireland’s community integration forums, and Dutch national guidelines supporting municipal outreach.
Several countries provide additional resources to municipalities hosting centres, including funding for healthcare, education, and transport. Ireland, Croatia, and the Slovak Republic channel such support through national schemes or by the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF).
The inform observes that many countries encounter difficulties in engaging with local stakeholders, particularly in regions with little prior experience of multicultural communities. Challenges such as local resistance, political tensions, and complicated coordination or communication processes can hinder both the establishment and integration of accommodation centres. Good practices identified include measures to support new centres, strengthen community engagement, provide financial support to municipalities, ensure transparent communication, and improve coordination after opening.
The full inform “Distribution of international protection accommodation centres and relationship management with local communities” is available in the Publications section on the EMN website.