Roundtable: The future of homestay accommodation for refugee reception in Germany

Abstract

Private homestay emerged as one key tool in the reception of refugees from Ukraine, providing a flexible alternative to traditional reception systems. Research at the DeZIM institute suggests that under certain structural conditions, homestays could meaningfully complement existing reception systems in Germany. Longitudinal survey data among hosts of Ukrainian refugees shows that they tend to report positive experiences and a willingness to provide accommodation again in the future, and notably also for other refugee groups. On the side of refugees, survey data among Ukrainian refugees confirms positive experiencesin homestays on average. While homestays have often lasted longer than originally anticipated, the preferences of both hosts and refugees suggest that homestays are preferred as a temporary solution only. On the other hand, finding subsequent accommodation and/or transitioning to the housing market remains, not unlike for refugees in state accommodations, remains a huge challenge.

Building on the experiences of providing homestay accommodation for refugees from Ukraine as well as scientific research on the subject and on accommodation systems more generally, this roundtable brings together scientists as well as practitioners from civil society organisations and municipality entities to discuss the current role and future potential of private homestays. Participants will discuss the conditions under which homestays could provide scalable and sustainable solutions for different groups of refugees paying particular attention to heterogeneous challenges and opportunities.

To facilitate participation of local municipality level representatives and civil society partners, the roundtable is designed to be hybrid and to use interactive tools for audience participation.

in-person or hybrid will be announced