This conference will explore European and Dutch experiences in supporting the early integration of applicants for international protection, with a particular focus on employment, language learning and cultural orientation. Drawing on the findings of a new EMN Inform, the event will bring together policymakers, experts and practitioners to discuss different national approaches, implementation challenges and good practices across Europe.

According to figures published by Statbel on 10 June 2026, 69.017 persons acquired Belgian nationality in 2025. The most common previous nationalities among those who became Belgian were Moroccan, Romanian, Syrian, Polish and Italian. Compared to 2024, the number of acquisitions of Belgian nationality increased by almost 9.000.

The Court of Justice of the European Union has ruled on the compatibility of a national residence requirement with EU equal treatment rules. The Court examined whether a 10-year residence condition could be applied to beneficiaries of international protection in order to access a social benefit. It found that the measure constitutes indirect discrimination prohibited under EU law.

DUO for a JOB has launched a national awareness campaign highlighting the persistence of discrimination in recruitment processes in Belgium. The initiative uses the format of the well-known game “Guess Who?” to illustrate how candidates may still be excluded on the basis of appearance, name, origin or accent rather than skills. The campaign is being rolled out in May across public spaces, including stations and metro networks in several Belgian cities.

On 20 March 2026, the Belgian Council of Ministers approved a draft law that would link the level of social assistance granted to beneficiaries of subsidiary and temporary protection to their participation in integration efforts through the Individual Social Integration Project (ISIP). Under the proposal, the amount of social assistance could be adjusted depending on the efforts made by the beneficiary to integrate.

The Antwerp Family Court has annulled the decisions of local civil registry officials that sought to revoke the Belgian nationality of children born in Belgium to Palestinian parents. In five rulings issued on 27 February 2026, the court emphasised that depriving these children of nationality would be contrary to their best interests.

On 12 January 2026, Myria issued a press release regarding a joint opinion with the Federal Institute for Human Rights (IFDH) on a draft law concerning the automatic loss of Belgian nationality. The joint opinion raises concerns over the significant expansion of offences and individuals affected, including dual nationals and Belgian-born citizens. Myria and IFDH highlight potential conflicts with equality, procedural safeguards, and fundamental rights, including the presumption of innocence. The press release draws attention to the consequences for residence rights and the need for thorough judicial review.

From 1 January 2026, the Onder1Dak project, which promotes co-housing between private homeowners and recognised refugees in Flanders, has restarted following renewed support from the Flemish Minister for Civic Integration and Integration. The initiative aims to facilitate access to housing while supporting the social and professional integration of recognised refugees.

On 23 December 2025, the Belgian Council of Ministers approved a draft law linking social assistance to integration efforts. For recognised refugees, the draft law foresees that the Individual Social Integration Project (ISIP) should include, at a minimum, participation in an integration path. Other newcomers, including third-country students and economically inactive EU citizens, would now need to have legally resided in Belgium for five years before becoming eligible for social assistance.

According to Statbel, the Belgian statistical office, 5.925 persons obtained Belgian nationality in September 2025. The main countries of origin of people who acquired Belgian nationality in September are Morocco, Romania, Syria, Poland and Italy.

EMN Portugal’s 2025 Conference will focus on the specific challenges arising from international protection and the integration of beneficiaries. The event will bring together researchers, government agencies, social partners and private sector representatives to exchange knowledge and explore innovative policies and practices. Participants will have the opportunity to discuss national experiences and share successful approaches adaptable to various contexts.

The EMN Lithuania Conference will explore how labour migration and integration policies can be better aligned to address Europe’s evolving workforce needs. Bringing together policymakers, experts, and practitioners, the event will examine ways to build coherent and sustainable labour migration systems. Discussions will focus on fair treatment, inclusion, and long-term outcomes for migrants. The conference will highlight the importance of linking policy design with practical integration measures across the EU.

This conference will draw on international and Irish expertise on integration to support an understanding of Ireland in a European policy context and to share evidence about what works in integration policymaking. Included will be both national and local perspectives on Irish integration.

According to Statbel, the Belgian statistical office, 4.859 persons obtained Belgian nationality in August 2025. The main countries of origin of people who acquired Belgian nationality in August are Morocco, Syria, Romania, Poland and France.

The EMN Finland Conference 2025 will examine the changed operating environment of immigrant integration in Finland, as well as the challenges and opportunities it presents. The conference will have a special focus on early-stage integration services and their impact on immigrant integration and employment.