Current migration situation in the EU: Impact on local communities (update)

Summary:

FRA already published a report on the impact of migration on local communities in July 2016. This updated version examines how the situation has developed in the seven EU Member States covered by the previous report (Austria, Bulgaria, Greece, Germany, Hungary, Italy and Sweden). It also assesses the situation in the seven additional EU Member States currently covered by the agency’s regular overviews (Denmark, Finland, France, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia and Spain).

Compared to 2016, the number of asylum seekers generally decreased in the majority of the locations in 2017. However, providing adequate and affordable housing remains one of the main challenges for local communities. Other recurring challenges include tackling negative social responses, supporting (social) integration, providing education and preventing school segregation, providing healthcare, and addressing the transition from education to employment.

There have also been positive developments, particularly the increase in and development of support for asylum seekers by civil society organisations. Promising practices in terms of fundamental rights were also reported in education and language acquisition, employment and labour markets, healthcare, and accommodation. Safety and security for local communities and asylum seekers increased in some locations. Social responses to and perceptions of asylum seekers and refugees have overall been positive. Some local communities specifically welcomed the resulting population increase and the positive effects on local economies.

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