04
Rethinking reception
Several challenges and critical situations in reception in recent years have catalysed authorities in many EU+ countries to comprehensively review their reception systems. The adoption of the recast Reception Conditions Directive (RCD) 2024 spurred further changes in the management of reception.
The overall pressure on receptions systems persisted in 2024. Although the number of people in reception decreased in some countries, the inflow of applicants remained high and issues with outflow continued, for example due to the general housing situation in some EU+ countries. In addition, the double challenge of accommodating asylum seekers and beneficiaries of temporary protection remained.
EU+ countries invested significant resources in improving their reception facilities; restructuring their reception authorities; developing new reception strategies; and increasing human capacity through recruitment and training. Nonetheless, some of the preexisting deficiencies continued, such as overcrowding; safety risks for residents and staff; reduced capacity to provide adequate follow-up for physical and mental health issues, including trauma; lack of privacy for residents; gaps in educational support for children; obstacles in accessing the labour market; and phenomena of homelessness while waiting to access reception. Delays in accessing reception prompted the judiciary to underline that applicants must be ensured suitable material reception conditions from the moment of making an application, and any other practice, such as the use of waiting lists, would not be sufficient to meet obligations under EU law.
Jurisprudence continued to grow on the interpretation of a dignified standard of living and how authorities should apply the rules on reducing or withdrawing material reception conditions. In several cases, courts condemned authorities for failing to provide adequate reception conditions.