In Belgium, for example, the national reception agency distributes flyers to local residents, holds information sessions with stakeholders, and appoints contact persons ahead of the centre’s opening. In Ireland, local outreach is structured around community integration forums, while the Netherlands has issued national guidelines to support municipal engagement and manage public information.

The inform highlights that most responding countries face challenges in engaging with local stakeholders, particularly in areas with limited prior experience of multicultural communities. Common issues include resistance from local residents and elected officials, lack of political will, and political tensions. A smaller number of countries reported delays in communication and complex coordination mechanisms. These challenges can affect not only the opening of accommodation centres but also their successful integration into local communities. The inform identifies a range of good practices grouped into five categories:

• measures to support the opening of accommodation centres.
• measures to foster community engagement and integrate centres into municipal life.
• financial support to municipalities hosting accommodation centres.
• clear, transparent and proactive communication with stakeholders.
• coordination mechanisms after opening.

This inform contributes to a growing body of EMN work examining the reception and integration of applicants for international protection. By offering a comparative overview of how accommodation centres are distributed and how relationships with local communities are managed, it provides a valuable resource for policymakers, local authorities, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.

For a detailed comparative analysis and full set of findings, read the complete EMN inform here.