Netherlands reports systematic neglect of asylum-seeking children — Anadolu Agency
In the Netherlands, around 7,000 children seeking asylum and living in emergency accommodation facilities are subjected to systematic neglect of their needs in conditions that threaten their development. The Dutch Safety Board warned about this.
Risks of violence and lack of privacy
As Anadolu Agency reports, the board’s findings are based on an investigation that lasted more than two years and concerned the living conditions of children in emergency accommodation facilities.
According to the investigation, children in such facilities face a high risk of physical and sexual violence, inappropriate behavior and abuse. Many accommodation sites also lack privacy and adequate sanitary conditions.
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Repeated relocations
Some children were transferred to other facilities up to ten times within a short period. This interrupted their education and deprived them of stability, the board said. It also reported that a lack of privacy and independence can cause stress, helplessness and constant vigilance. Cases of self-harm and suicidal behavior were recorded among unaccompanied minors.
Emergency accommodation facilities, including converted offices, vessels, event halls and container housing, were initially created as a temporary solution due to a shortage of places in regular asylum seeker centers. Such facilities now account for about 60% of all locations used to accommodate them. The board called on Minister for Asylum and Migration Bart van den Brink to improve conditions within six months.
