The new Dutch asylum measures offer no solutions for refugees and society
1. Tackling symptoms instead of causes
The asylum reception centres have been full for years. That’s why the government wants to implement measures to reduce the number of asylum applications.
But newsflash: the number of asylum seekers coming to the Netherlands isn’t actually the cause of the reception problem. In fact, the number of asylum seekers isn’t higher than in other years and is right in line with the European average.
The real issues lie elsewhere: there aren’t enough reception centers to house asylum seekers after their arrival in Ter Apel. Nor are there sufficient homes for refugees who have been granted residence permits. These shortages create bottlenecks throughout the system.
On top of that, the asylum procedures are taking longer and longer. One major reason for this, is staffing shortages at the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND). These systemic issues are the result of years of political inaction
Three of the announced measures highlighted:
1. Scrapping the dispersal act
The government plans to repeal the so-called “Distribution Act”, which was designed to fairly distribute asylum reception centers across the country. This law is crucial for resolving the current reception crisis and enabling smaller-scale (read: better!) reception facilities.
2. From 5 to 3-year residence permits and no permanent permits
The proposal is to issue residence permits to refugees for three, instead of five years. And to abolish the option to apply for permanent residency after five years. This prolonged uncertainty will make it much harder for refugees to rebuild their lives and become part of Dutch society.
3. No obligation for municipalities to house refugees
Municipalities will no longer be required to provide housing for refugees with residence permits. Without access to permanent housing, refugees could end up in isolated camps or ghettos, which will impede inclusion into society.
2) Measures undermine inclusion
Refugees can and want to contribute to our society. But the announced strict measures discourage inclusion. After all, why would you put effort into learning Dutch if you remain at risk of being sent back for such a long time?
Without the prospect of permanent housing, how can refugees focus on finding work, making friends, becoming part of their local community and contributing to society?
3) No interest in real solutions for real challenges
None of the measures seem to be aimed at finding real solutions for the lack of reception capacity, housing, and the long asylum procedures. In fact, the government is dismissing one very real solution by scrapping the Distribution Act. This act would have ensured a fairer distribution of reception centres across the country, making refugee reception a shared responsibility among all municipalities.
Stop scapegoating refugees
Refugees are being unfairly blamed for issues caused by years of political neglect. Their stories, struggles, and hopes are being drowned out amid all the political debates and restrictive measures.
Now, more than ever, refugees need our understanding and support. Together, we continue to advocate for fair policies and humane solutions.