2423rd Council meeting

JUSTICE, HOME AFFAIRS AND CIVIL PROTECTION

Luxembourg, 25/26 April 2002

MINIMUM RECEPTION STANDARDS FOR ASYLUM SEEKERS

The Council reached a general understanding subject to submission of the European Parliament's opinion and the lifting of two Parliamentary scrutiny reservations, on a directive laying down minimum standards for the reception of applicants for asylum in the Member States. The Directive will be formally adopted it at one of its forthcoming sessions.

The directive establishes minimum standards of reception conditions of applicants for asylum in the European Union, which are deemed sufficient to ensure them a dignified standard of living. It contains specific provisions on residence and freedom of movement, family unity, schooling and the education of minors, employment and access to vocational training. It also defines conditions for exclusion, reduction and review.

The directive covers all third-country nationals and stateless persons who make an application for asylum at the border or in the territory of a Member State as long as they are allowed to remain on the territory, as well as to certain family members.

Member States may introduce or retain more favourable reception conditions in so far as these are compatible with the directive.