Foreword

Political developments in 2021 and early 2022 had a direct impact on international protection needs, spurring waves of displacement towards EU+ countries. The Taliban surge to power in Afghanistan and the Russian invasion of Ukraine created new protection needs and contributed to the rising number of asylum applicants in Europe. In addition, the post-COVID-19 situation with the rise in the numbers of asylum seekers presented new challenges which called for dynamic solutions to maintain the integrity of the world’s only multinational asylum system – the Common European Asylum System (CEAS). These events serve as a stark reminder of how quickly patterns in migration and asylum can change.

Against this backdrop, the Asylum Report 2022 highlights how the preparedness and flexibility of national asylum and reception systems were tested to continue to provide protection to those in need. Many administrations faced tremendous pressure with high influxes of arrivals, while continuing to circumnavigate ongoing COVID-19 restrictions. The report shows where there is convergence in implementing the CEAS, but it does not shy away from mentioning the divergences that continue and where further improvements can be made. 

The resilience of asylum systems can only grow as progress is made toward adopting the legal instruments of the European Commission’s Pact on Migration and Asylum. In addition, with a reinforced mandate since January 2022, the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA) plays a key role in further calibrating CEAS and actively supporting Member States. But it is important to listen to the voices from the field as well. This is where the Asylum Report serves as a valuable resource which cites over 1,500 reliable sources, including national authorities, international organisations, academia and civil society organisations, and provides the most comprehensive situational update in the field of asylum in Europe. 

As the centre of expertise on asylum in Europe and since its foundation 11 years ago, the Agency has united
EU+ countries in exchanging information, sharing best practices, improving quality and harmonising processes. It is certain that the demand for the Agency’s support will keep growing and we stand ready to continue working with our partners and fulfil our reinforced mandate in the years to come. 

 
Nina Gregori
Executive Director
European Union Agency for Asylum