Pilot project for the distribution of asylum seekers
using an algorithm-based matching process

About the project

The opportunities for refugees to participate in society largely depend on local conditions at their new place of residence. However, to date, referrals from initial reception centres to municipalities have rarely taken into account the needs of those seeking protection. Quotas are usually applied, and the individual needs of those seeking protection and the conditions in the host communities are only taken into account in exceptional cases. This is where the Match’In pilot project comes in: we have developed an algorithm-based process that uses various criteria to query and compare the characteristics and needs of those seeking protection as well as local conditions in the municipalities, and then makes a distribution proposal based on this information.

Why Match’In?

Informed decisions: Administrative authorities receive data-based support for the distribution of refugees.
Efficient integration: Resources and measures can be used in a more targeted manner to promote sustainable integration.
Fair opportunities: More tailored allocations give refugees a better start.

The funding phases of the project

The Match’In pilot project consists of two funding phases, each with a different focus:

Match‘In 1.0

In the first funding phase, Match’In 1.0 (2021–2025), the universities of Hildesheim and Erlangen-Nuremberg, along with four selected federal states, developed the algorithm-based procedure with funding from the Mercator Foundation. The algorithm identifies the individual needs of asylum seekers traveling alone and determines which municipality is best suited to meet those needs. The procedure was then tested in real conditions in over 20 municipalities, and this was accompanied by scientific research.

Match‘In 2.0

The current funding phase, Match’In 2.0 (2025–2027), builds on the results of the first funding period. It comprises two sub-projects funded by the Ministry for Family, Women, Culture and Integration of Rhineland-Palatinate and the Hessian Ministry for Labour, Integration, Youth and Social Affairs. This phase has two core objectives: expanding the algorithm-based procedure for family networks (Sub-project Rhineland-Palatinate) and developing an app accompanying the procedure (Sub-project Hesse).