The asylum seeker registration center in Ter Apel remains overcrowded, creating unsafe conditions for both asylum seekers and staff, according to the Inspectorate of Justice and Security. The Inspectorate highlights the lack of a structural solution and calls for immediate action.
With the proposed repeal of the distribution law, the Inspectorate emphasizes that Minister Faber of Asylum and Migration must address the situation in Ter Apel. In a letter to Faber, the Inspectorate urges the minister to implement measures that enable the Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA) to manage the situation more effectively.
Recommendations include improving the flow of asylum seekers through the system, creating additional alternative accommodation, and enhancing existing facilities to support longer stays. The shortage of space has led to emergency measures being used as a standard practice, with asylum seekers remaining in Ter Apel for up to six months due to lack of movement options.
There are also insufficient staff to handle unexpected situations. The reliance on alternative night locations has resulted in very unsafe conditions, negatively impacting the mental and physical well-being of residents, particularly the most vulnerable.
Ter Apel was designed for a maximum of 2,000 residents, as overseen by the Westerwolde municipality. However, between October 2023 and October 2024, the center consistently held between 2,000 and 2,200 people, with around 700 individuals at external waiting locations also spending their days at Ter Apel.
COA has repeatedly raised concerns about the emergency situation, and Westerwolde’s mayor, Velema, previously stated that Minister Faber is avoiding her responsibilities.
Source: NOS