Family reunification

The right to family life is a central tenet of European Human rights law, however it is not necessarily extended to those who have sought asylum. Though the right to family reunification is recognised for refugees with a Convention status, those who have been granted protection on other grounds may find it impossible to reunite with children or spouses, or can do so only if they can fulfil unduly stringent regulations.

ECRE believes that any delay or obstruction in unifying separated families is unacceptable and inhumane, especially in cases where children are involved. It is concerned that the limited definition of the family in the EU Directive on family reunification may exclude dependent family members. In the longer term, integration not premised on family unity is unlikely to succeed.

Position Papers

Information note on Family Reunification Directive

Position on Family Reunification

Responses & Recommendations

Comments on amended proposal for a Family Reunification Directive