Standing up for refugees
We are the primary advocate for refugee rights in the Netherlands. Refugees can always count on us, even if we have to fight all the way to the highest court.
Our commitment
We fight for a welcoming society where refugees can build a new future in safety. We achieve this by putting pressure on politics, making our voices heard in the community, and, in some cases, taking legal action.
Pressure on politics
We persuade the government to adopt a humane refugee policy. We identify issues and advocate for lasting solutions. We do this locally, nationally, and internationally.
Increasing support
We work to build broad support for refugees among the Dutch public. For example, through campaigns on radio, TV, and online. We also make sure refugees' voices are heard in the media.
Taking legal action
In the Netherlands and Europe, refugee rights are under serious pressure. That’s why, in some cases, we take legal action. Our experts from the Strategic Litigation Committee work on this in collaboration with asylum seekers and asylum lawyers.
Get involved
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1. Pressure on politics
Every refugee has the right to protection and a fair chance to build a new life. This means a swift and thorough asylum procedure, a solid legal standing, and access to housing, employment, and integration.
As an independent organization, we work in various ways to convince the government to adopt a humane refugee policy:
- We identify issues and advocate for improvements with policymakers.
- We propose better policies and respond to draft legislation.
- We conduct research on the Dutch asylum system and refugee integration, publishing reports with recommendations.
- We contribute input to research conducted by advisory councils, research institutions, and academia.
- We collaborate with other organizations to ensure that the Netherlands upholds international treaties, such as the European Convention on Human Rights.
2. Increasing support
In addition to our political and legal efforts, we also engage the public regarding the position of refugees in the Netherlands. This is done through public campaigns on radio, TV, and online, for example. But also through the following methods:
Stories, Positions, and Press Releases
In the media, the Dutch Council for Refugees is a well-known name. We seek attention for our positions and distribute press releases. Additionally, we ensure that personal stories of refugees are read, seen, or heard by a wide audience.
Activities and Projects in the Region
Our regional locations are very active in their communities, participating in various activities and (meeting) projects. Here, volunteers and refugees stand side by side to raise awareness of the position of refugees in the Netherlands.
3. Taking legal action
During the asylum procedure, Refugee Work supports asylum seekers and their lawyers. This allows us to see firsthand the challenges within the Dutch asylum policy. To improve the situation for specific groups of refugees, we present selected cases to Dutch and European judges through our Strategic Litigation Committee.
What did we achieve?
Through the Strategic Litigation program, we have already achieved several successes both domestically and internationally for groups such as LGBTQIA+, political refugees, and underage refugees. For example, in 2023, the court ruled that the living conditions in the Moria refugee camp were inhumane, and Hungary was reprimanded for detaining refugees at the border.
Refugees often hold a vulnerable position in society. It is our responsibility to represent their interests effectively, on a personal level, locally, nationally, and in Europe.
Support us with a donation
With your contribution, we can continue to urge Dutch and European politics toward a more humane refugee policy. Your support is essential for refugees who are forced to leave everything behind in search of safety. Thank you very much!