Mission Statement

The European Council on Refugees and Exiles (ECRE) is a pan-European alliance of 122 NGOs in 40 countries protecting and advancing the rights of refugees, asylum seekers and displaced persons. Our mission is to promote the establishment of fair and humane European asylum policies and practices in accordance with international human rights law.

Working together with our members and partners to inform and persuade European authorities and the public, we monitor and denounce human rights violations while proposing and promoting fair and effective durable solutions. We accomplish our mission through research, advocacy and the sharing of knowledge and expertise.

ECRE strives for a Europe that protects refugees, asylum seekers and displaced persons with dignity and respect.

“Europe” refers to the broader geographic territory as well as “Europe” as an actor giving access to protection and providing assistance on its territory and outside.

The term “protects” is defined in the broadest sense, to encompass access to asylum, legal and physical protection and integration.

“Refugees, asylum seekers and displaced persons” to include all people seeking protection against their loss of rights due to displacement.