Detention and Alternatives to Detention in International Protection and Return Procedures

The publication presents key findings of the EMN study on the use of detention and non-custodial alternatives in international protection and return procedures across 25 EMN Member States, from 2015 to early 2022. It summarizes national legal frameworks, assesses criteria used for imposing detention versus alternatives, and highlights prevalent practices - such as reporting obligations, residence requirements and bail - as well as implementation challenges including data gaps and financial constraints. Designed for rapid uptake by policymakers and practitioners, it offers accessible, actionable insights into designing more proportionate and effective systems for processing and returning third-country nationals.