Our international activities

Our international activities

Refugees who cross Europe’s borders are far from always safe. That is why we advocate for the protection of refugees not only in the Netherlands, but across Europe as well. Out of international solidarity, we support refugee organisations at Europe’s external borders. Read more here about our international activities.

Vluchtelingkinderen op Lesbos

Support for European partner organisations

Refugees and asylum seekers are faced with inhumane treatment, both outside and within Europe’s borders. Violent “pushbacks” frequently take place at Europe’s external borders. During a pushback, refugees are forced back from one country to another, ignoring the international right to seek asylum. Those who do manage to cross the border often have little to no access to legal assistance, few opportunities to support themselves, or are placed in detention for months. We stand up for these refugees and support partner organisations at Europe’s borders.

More about our international projects 

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The European Migration Pact

The EU Migration Pact comes into force on 12 June 2026. The pact includes several improvements, such as better reception facilities and earlier access to work and education for children. At the same time, we also have serious concerns. 

What the pact entails (in Dutch)

Keeping an eye on 'Brussels'

Because of the common asylum system, it is very important to keep an eye on 'Brussels'. This allows us to influence the legislative process at an early stage. To this end, the Council for Refugees is affiliated with ECRE, a European umbrella organization that closely follows the legislative process in Brussels.

See the work of ECRE

Support refugees worldwide

Everyone deserves protection, no matter where they are. We support local partner organisations outside the Netherlands with funding, legal expertise and knowledge-sharing. Because together, we can make a greater impact. Want to support our international efforts? 

Donate now

Vluchteling met 2 zoontjes