Background:

The European Migration Network, following a vote by its Steering Board, decided to develop an Inform on "Early integration of applicants for international protection", as part of its 2025 work programme. The aim of this Inform was to gather insights into the variety of practical activities and innovative solutions developed in EMN Member and Observer Countries regarding early integration measures for international protection applicants, including both minors and adults. These refer to measures and activities implemented during the asylum procedure to facilitate and accelerate integration, with the goal of achieving independence and reducing social exclusion. Such measures may include access to language courses, preparatory classes (particularly for school-aged children) to support participation in the education system, employment and skills development programmes, and civic orientation. To gather reliable and up-to-date information for drafting the Inform, this ad hoc question was issued.

Respondents:

25 EMN Member and Observer Countries (including BE) provided a public answer to this ad hoc query.

Findings:

A preliminary analysis of the results of the ad hoc query shows that:

• Most responding EMN Member and Observer Countries implement early integration measures, although access, coverage and focus vary. Some countries limit measures to specific groups (e.g. vulnerable applicants).

• All countries reporting early integration measures cite the involvement of national authorities in the provision, delivery or coordination of those measures through the reception systems. These are supported by local authorities and are often complemented by non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and/or local partners.

• 16 EMN Member Countries and Serbia adapt early integration measures based on age, gender, vulnerability or educational background, particularly for children, women, unaccompanied minors, and people with health or psychosocial needs.

• Most responding countries rely on indirect monitoring or broader integration evaluations to assess the impact of early integration measures. Two countries report specific systems to assess the impact of early integration measures.

• The responses identify a range of good practices in the design and delivery of early integration measures. These include early language learning, civic orientation, labour market preparation, coordinated information provision and strong cooperation between public authorities, civil society and local communities. Several countries also highlight the value of tailored support and locally embedded initiatives to promote longer-term social and labour market integration.

• Most responding countries identify a range of challenges affecting the delivery of early integration measures. These include limited or unstable funding, organisational and logistical constraints, systemic issues linked to national policies and governance, as well as external factors such as fluctuating numbers of applicants, diverse needs and barriers to participation. 

For concise and comparative information, please refer to the Inform on the subject. For detailed country-specific information, please consult the attached compilation of responses.