The report highlights that, with regard to the reception of international protection applicants, 2023 was once again marked by the saturation of the reception network. It points out that, in 2023, 8.816 individuals were unable to enter the regular reception system on the day of their registration. These individuals, mostly unaccompanied men, were asked to sign up for a waiting list and were accommodated later based on the availability of places. Several of them were temporarily housed within the homeless shelter network in Brussels (2.000 places available through an agreement between regional and federal authorities). By the end of 2023, nearly 3.000 people remained on the waiting list.

Regarding refugee resettlement, the report notes that 287 refugees were resettled in Belgium in 2023, primarily families of Congolese refugees from Rwanda and Syrian refugees from Jordan and Egypt. Despite considerable efforts, Belgium was unable to meet its commitment to resettle 500 refugees that year. However, a significant step forward was the opening of a dedicated reception centre for resettled refugees in September 2023. Located in Alveringem, West Flanders, this new facility offers around 100 structural places specifically for resettled refugees.

Finally, in terms of voluntary return, the report states that in 2023, Fedasil assisted 2.952 individuals who chose to return to their country of origin. The main countries of return have remained largely consistent over the past few years, with Brazil, Moldova, Mongolia, El Salvador, and Georgia topping the list. Among those who returned, 2.069 migrants — around 70% — received additional reintegration support to help them rebuild their lives and plan for a sustainable future in their home country.

For further information and statistics, please read the annual report 2023 attached above (in French or in Dutch).