About this survey:

The European Council on Refugees and Exiles (ECRE) and the European Legal Network on Asylum (ELENA) published in October 2010 a survey which provides a comparative overview of legal aid for asylum seekers in 19 European countries (17 EU member states plus Norway and Switzerland). Throughout the survey it also refers to the implementation of relevant provisions in the Asylum Procedures Directive. However, the objective of the study was not in the first place to monitor its implementation, rather the survey aims to stimulate dialogue on the necessity for a high quality legal aid regime. Nevertheless, it is envisaged that the information gathered in this survey may also inform the ongoing debate on the Asylum Procedures recast proposal, which includes amendments strengthening the provision of free legal aid to asylum seekers.

The research reveals positive developments in the provision of legal aid as well as restrictions on access to legal advice and representation in practice. In conclusion, ECRE/ELENA provide recommendations to improve the provision of legal aid for asylum seekers in Europe.

Author: ECRE/ELENA