The Brussels Deal was introduced at the end of 2022 as a temporary cooperation arrangement between the Federal Government and the Brussels-Capital Region, following capacity pressures within the Fedasil reception network. Through this arrangement, additional reception places were provided via organisations active in Brussels. The scheme gradually increased to 2.000 places and mainly accommodated single male applicants for international protection awaiting a place in the regular reception network. Following the announced reductions, the capacity will decrease to around 1.000 places.

To justify the decision, Minister Van Bossuyt referred to the reduced number of applicants for international protection remaining on the Fedasil waiting list. According to the Minister, around 1.000 single men are currently still waiting for accommodation, with approximately half staying temporarily with family members, friends or acquaintances. The Minister also indicated that the capacity available for unaccompanied minors is being adjusted to current needs, as the number of occupied places has decreased and additional places remain available within the regular Fedasil network.

The Minister stated that she aims to accommodate all remaining persons on the waiting list within the Fedasil reception network by the end of 2026, which would allow the temporary Brussels Deal to be phased out. The decision has been criticised by Brussels authorities, which argue that reducing the scheme could place additional pressure on existing social services and emergency accommodation facilities. Following the first announcement of reductions, Brussels Minister for Social Action and Solidarity Ahmed Laaouej criticised the decision, stating that it had been taken without sufficient consultation and within a limited timeframe.

For further information, please read (in Dutch) the press release from the Minister for Asylum and Migration.