Handicap International – Crossroads Launches Collection of Anonymized Case Studies to Highlight Gaps in Needs-Based Support.
From mid-2026, Germany will implement the reform of the Common European Asylum System (CEAS). This reform not only brings stricter measures but also affects the special procedural guarantees for vulnerable groups – including refugees with disabilities. The organization Handicap International – Crossroads is now taking a closer look at this aspect.
“The upcoming implementation is a key occasion for us to expose existing systemic weaknesses in the asylum procedure,” explains Sophia Eckert from Handicap International – Crossroads. “Our goal is to push for significantly better consideration of the specific needs of people with disabilities in the future – both in hearings and throughout the entire procedural process.”
However, to work effectively at the political level, a broad empirical basis is needed. Their own advisory experience is not sufficient here. Therefore, the organization is now launching an appeal to lawyers, counselling centres, and procedural representatives: They are seeking anonymized case examples that document practical deficits.
Where are the sticking points in practice?
This refers to cases where the necessary accessibility and sensitivity in the procedure were not ensured. Typical examples are:
Communication barriers: Hearings without qualified sign language interpreters or without appropriate translation into simple or easy-to-understand language.
Incomplete assessment: Missing or superficial questions regarding impairments and their impact on the persecution or threat situation in the country of origin.
Procedural errors: Insensitive questioning, lack of necessary breaks, or an intimidating atmosphere during the hearing.
Physical and informational barriers: Inaccessible building entrances or written information not available in accessible formats.
The definition of disability is based on the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and includes people with long-term physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairments, as well as individuals with serious chronic illnesses (e.g., cancer, diabetes), mental impairments (e.g., PTSD, depression), or age-related limitations.
Call for Cooperation
“We ask for brief anonymized case outlines,” says Eckert. Important details include the status of the procedure, the type of disability, and a concrete description of the problem that occurred. The contact details of submitters will be treated confidentially and used only for potential follow-up questions. All information will be used exclusively in anonymized form for advocacy work at the federal level.
With this collection, Handicap International – Crossroads aims to demonstrate where the reform must intervene to create true procedural justice for all. The gathered insights are intended to feed into the political debate on the national implementation of the CEAS reform.
Contact for case submissions and inquiries:
Sophia Eckert, Handicap International – Crossroads
Email: so.eckert@hi.org
Mobile: +49 (0) 176 17610112
