Background information
The reception conditions directive (2013/33/EU), (RCD (recast)), mainly emphasises the importance of ensuring access to leisure activities for children, including age-appropriate play and recreational indoor and outdoor activities within and outside the accommodation facilities (Article. 23 RCD (recast)). Nevertheless, the significance of providing access to such activities for all applicants is well-documented. Participation in recreational, cultural and social activities offers multifaceted benefits, supporting mental and physical well-being, language and cultural adaptation, integration, and more. Additionally, it fosters connections between reception authorities, NGOs staff and applicants, laying the foundation for building trust and addressing other needs within the reception system.
According to the EASO Consultations with applicants for international protection on mental health, 2021 ‘[…] applicants would also appreciate information on general topics such as recreational activities, opportunities to do sport, etc’. Moreover, the study highlights that providing opportunities for applicants to engage in daily routines and activities, thereby feeling 'useful' and making better use of their time in reception facilities, represents a good practice in mitigating risks associated with critical incidents.
The EUAA Guidance on Reception – Operational standards and indicators, 2024, Standard 26: Applicant’s Involvement in Areas That Affect Their Daily Life, refers to actions that ensure applicants are enabled to actively engage in activities carried out in the accommodation facility, including social, cultural and recreational activities.
Information provision messages
Inform applicants on the below.
- The array of social, cultural, and recreational activities available to them both within and outside the reception facility, organised in collaboration with municipalities, NGOs, local communities, volunteers, and other stakeholders.
- How and where applicants can access information about current activities and events, (e.g. through an info point, dedicated websites, NGOs, etc.)
- Programmes aimed at facilitating integration between applicants and the host society. Briefly explain the reasons applicants are encouraged to participate and the benefits, e.g. fostering social and cultural exchange, language learning, personal well-being and development, integration prospects.
- The available volunteering opportunities inside and outside the reception facility.
- How to organise for attending activities outside reception, including by informing them on available transportation.
Practical tips
- Ensure applicants understand that discrimination is unacceptable during the recreational, cultural and social activities, and emphasise that everyone is welcome and encouraged to participate. Where applicable, mention the option of being accompanied by cultural mediators, NGOs, or reception staff to assist in overcoming language barriers and facilitating participation.
- Promote the involvement of applicants with special needs in activities. Provide information on whether the setup accommodates their participation in specific activities, considering factors such as mobility and age.
- Tailor information to reflect the diversity of activities of each reception facility’s location and specific characteristics.
- Encourage active participation by providing guidance on how applicants can propose specific activities (e.g. on the occasion of cultural and religious celebrations) and register their participation for other activities (e.g. day trips, sport competitions), if necessary.
- Emphasise that men and women are equally encouraged to participate in recreational, cultural and social activities.