The Irish Refugee Council today launched its 2025 Impact Report, highlighting a broad range of work and impact in response to a high demand for services. During a year marked by homelessness, significant restrictions on the rights of people seeking international protection, systemic barriers to integration, and increased uncertainty as Ireland began transposing the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, the organisation provided support to more than 25,000 people.

Alongside providing practical assistance, the Irish Refugee Council secured a landmark judgment from the Court of Justice of the European Union confirming that Ireland has a legal obligation to meet the basic needs of homeless international protection applicants.

Nick Henderson, CEO of the Irish Refugee Council, said:

“2025 was a year of significant change and concern for people seeking international protection and refugees in Ireland as major policy changes introduced new challenges for many. Throughout it all, we remained a trusted source of information, legal advice, and practical support. From helping people reunite with their families and access employment to supporting education and advocating for humane and fair international protection laws, we engaged with nearly 25,000 people through 20,000 calls answered, one-to-one support provided to 3,400 people, and outreach that reached a further 1,600 people.

We launch this report just over a month after Ireland started implementing a new asylum system. A fair and effective protection system depends on people understanding and accessing their rights. It is essential that applicants, communities and the organisations supporting them receive clear, timely and accessible information. This enables organisations, communities, and public bodies to better support people to navigate the complex process and integrate.

While timely international protection decisions are important, we are concerned when fast-tracking applications and requiring people, including families with status, to leave State-provided accommodation are presented as solutions to homelessness. We are also extremely concerned by the new family reunification laws, which will break families apart. These policies undermine the work of local communities, organisations and public bodies working every day to support integration."

Key statistics include:

  • 3,404 people received intensive one-to-one support.
  • 20,152 incoming calls to our helplines.
  • 1,623 people reached through outreach.
  • 225 people received one-to-one support to improve employability.
  • 194 young people supported through our one-to-one casework.
  • 71 people granted funding through our Education Fund.
  • Secured a landmark Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) ruling.
  • Nine cultural orientation sessions were delivered to support newly arrived families to settle in Ireland.

Notes for Editors:

  • The Irish Refugee Council 2025 Impact Report is available here.
  • The Court of Justice of the European Union ruling is available here.

Further information:

  • Nick Henderson, CEO, nick@irishrefugeecouncil.ie, 0858585559.
  • Wendy Muperi, Communications Officer, wendy@irishrefugeecouncil.ie, 0858550434.