Reducing the capacity of local refugee reception centres in Belgium: challenges and solutions

In recent years, Belgium has seen a sharp decline in the number of refugee accommodation places in local initiatives. A reduction in the capacity of centers by more than 30% since 2021 threatens the efficiency of the accommodation and order system. With the growing influx of migrants, the issue of creating additional places and improving infrastructure is becoming increasingly urgent.

Current situation with the accommodation of refugees in Belgium

In recent years, Belgium has faced a shortage of places to accommodate refugees, which is exacerbated by a housing shortage and growing requests for assistance. This leads to a decrease in the number of places available in refugee centers, which worsens conditions for those displaced. One of the main reasons is the economic crisis caused by global events and domestic problems.

Stages of reducing places in refugee centers:

• 2021: The beginning of the accommodation crisis.
• 2022: Significant capacity reduction amid economic pressures.
• 2023: The situation worsens due to an increase in the flow of migrants.
• 2024: Continued cuts and housing problems.

As of early 2025, the situation remains tense: the number of places in refugee centers has not recovered and the flows of migrants continue to grow. This requires urgent measures to create additional places and improve conditions for those seeking asylum in Belgium.

Drastic reduction in places in local accommodation initiatives

Since 2021, Belgium has seen a significant reduction in the number of places available for refugees in local initiatives. On average, the number of places has decreased by 30%, especially in Brussels and Flanders, where accommodation is facing the greatest challenges. Problems in the housing market, increased demand and a lack of funding have led many municipalities to limit their capacity to temporarily accommodate refugees. In some districts, such as Antwerp and Liège, the situation is particularly difficult, with an increase in the number of people displaced and a reduction in available resources.

The decline in the number of places in local refugee accommodation initiatives is due to several factors. One of the main reasons is the funding constraints, which make it impossible to build new accommodation facilities. Local authorities face a lack of resources to maintain existing centers. In some areas, such as Brussels, the government is forced to reduce the number of places provided, leading to overcrowding.

In addition, the housing crisis in Belgium is affecting the reduction of places. Cities with high demand for housing, such as Antwerp, are experiencing rising rents and a shortage of affordable housing. This makes the adaptation process more difficult for refugees who are unable to find long-term housing solutions.

Solutions and suggestions

The refugee accommodation situation in Belgium remains challenging, with a significant reduction in places in local initiatives. In 2024, the Belgian government took a number of steps to improve the accommodation system, but challenges remain. Measures include finding additional places in temporary accommodation centers and improving the efficiency of existing programmers.

Solutions and suggestions:

• Expanding the network of temporary accommodation centers throughout the country.
• Involvement of private and public organizations in providing accommodation.
• Increasing funding for refugee adaptation and integration programs.
• Developing legislative initiatives to improve access to housing.
• Increased coordination between local and federal authorities to optimize refugee distribution.

Addressing the refugee accommodation problem in Belgium requires a comprehensive approach and long-term efforts. As of 2025, the government will continue to work on improving infrastructure and expanding available places, but further reforms are needed to significantly improve the situation.