With this policy change, the IND can now assume that unaccompanied minor foreigners from Ethiopia and Gambia can return after their asylum application has been rejected. In each individual case, the Return and Departure Service ensures that access to reception upon arrival is actually arranged.
For unaccompanied minor foreigners, first consideration is given to reunification with parents, relatives up to the fourth degree (parents of grandparents), or an adult in the country of origin who can demonstrably provide accommodation. If that is not possible, it will be assessed whether accommodation in a reception facility in the country of origin is feasible. This accommodation must provide shelter until the age of 18 (or until family accommodation is possible) and must provide food, clothing, hygiene, education, and medical care.
Research commissioned by the IND shows that a reception facility in Ethiopia and two facilities in Gambia meet these requirements. Based on this, it is taken into account in the implementation of the Aliens Act that adequate reception is available in these countries.