While there is no obligation under the Reception Directive (2013/33/EU) to use interpreters in reception facilities, the use of interpretation facilitates communication between the staff and the linguistically diverse group of residents in these facilities.

The objective of this ad hoc query is to map other EMN Member States’ experiences with interpreting in reception facilities. 23 Member States replied to this query, the main findings are:

• A minority of Member States have (extensive) formal requirements and guidance, including specific legislation, on the use of interpreters in the field of reception. However, this does not impede EMN Member States from using interpretation services. All Member States use (at least) occasionally interpreting services. When formal guidelines are provided, they are seldom comprehensive, leading many issues to the discretion of the staff of reception facilities, including the contexts which require interpreters, who can provide interpretation, and how.
   
• The Member States generally prefer certified interpreters but often allow multilingual staff or residents to do the interpretation. On-site interpretation is equally preferred, yet remote interpretation has been developed in most Member States as well.
   
• A majority of Member States provide interpretation possibilities through video calls but mention that this requires precautionary and preparatory measures to ensure privacy and technical support.
   
• Almost no Member States have their own interpreters. Reception authorities do however consider language skills during recruitment procedures to reduce the need for interpreting services.
   
• Interpretation services are mostly provided by external agencies that have been appointed through a public procurement process at a central level. Budgets are often heterogeneous, including AMIF funding. EUAA is also increasingly providing support through interpreters.
   
• Most Member States experience difficulties in finding interpreters, especially for very rare or very frequently requested language combinations. The use of artificial intelligence in language learning is still widely underdeveloped across most EU Member States. 

For additional information, please read the summary report and the compilation of answers attached above.