Migrant and Refugee Fund

Safeguarding basic human rights

The Migrant and Refugee Fund (MRF), established in October 2015, supports CEB member states’ efforts to ensure that migrants and refugees who arrive on their territory enjoy basic human rights, such as shelter, food and medical aid, as well as personal security. The Fund may also be used to help CEB member states integrate these populations and enable them to rebuild their lives. All projects funded by the MRF must comply with the European Convention on Human Rights and the European Social Charter.

At end-2016, € 18 million in grants have been approved from the MRF. The CEB assistance was used primarily to increase shelter capacity and improve conditions in reception centres, as well as to provide food, health care, and legal advice to migrants and refugees. Thanks to this financial support, the countries are better able to manage migrant and refugee flows.

Strong support from the international community

At end-2016, eighteen CEB member states have contributed to the MRF. In addition, the European Investment Bank and the CEB both provided funding to the MRF. In total, funds raised amount to € 21 million. Among CEB member states, the largest contributors are Germany and France.

Contributions