Free movement without access to rights? Confronting homelessness and exclusion in the EU
This webinar explored the barriers faced by destitute mobile EU citizens in accessing their fundamental rights across Europe. Drawing on new research from FEANTSA and contributions from practitioners, legal experts and policymakers, the discussion examined how freedom of movement is experienced in practice by people facing homelessness, poverty and social exclusion. It highlighted the challenges and opportunities for improving access to rights across Member States.
About the Webinar
Freedom of movement is one of the European Union's most significant achievements. However, for many mobile EU citizens experiencing homelessness or destitution, access to housing, social support and other fundamental rights remains uncertain and uneven across Member States.
This webinar presented the findings of FEANTSA's report Mapping Access to Rights for Destitute Mobile EU Citizens in Europe and examined how different countries interpret and implement EU free movement legislation. Through national case studies and expert discussion, participants explored the legal, policy and practical barriers affecting mobile EU citizens in vulnerable situations, as well as potential pathways towards a more rights-based approach.
Speakers
- Jules Van Dam, President, FEANTSA (Moderator)
- Simona Barbu, Policy Officer, FEANTSA
- Merve Yikilmaz, Valente & Salvation Army, Netherlands
- Annie Berendsen, De Regenboog Groep, Netherlands
- Mari Seilskjær, Kirkens Bymisjon, Norway
- Dion Kramer, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
- Claire Damilano, Senior Legal Expert, European Citizen Action Service (ECAS)
Key Discussion Points
- Main findings from FEANTSA's research on access to rights for destitute mobile EU citizens.
- National experiences from the Netherlands and Norway, highlighting both promising practices and persistent challenges.
- The impact of differing interpretations of Directive 2004/38/EC across Member States.
- Legal and policy obstacles affecting access to housing, social assistance and support services.
- The tension between freedom of movement as a fundamental right and concerns regarding access to welfare systems.
- Recommendations for strengthening rights-based approaches and improving the implementation of EU legislation.
Resources
Presentations from the webinar
- Opening Slides by FEANTSA
- Homeless EU citizens in the Netherlands, by Merve Yikilmaz & Annie Berendsen
- Access to rights for destitute EU migrants in Norway, by Mari Seilskjær
- EU RIGHTS ACTIVITIES, by Claire Damilano
Additional resources
- Analysis of the Commission’s Guidance in Addressing the Obstacles to Free Movement (DIRECTIVE 2004/38/ EC), by Claire Morot-Sir, ECAS & Sergio Pérez, FEANTSA
- Netherlands Action Plan for vulnerable homeless EU citizens (in Dutch)