Dutch municipalities to find extra housing for one in five recognised refugees

Dutch municipalities are to arrange additional housing for one in five recognised refugees seeking a home, under agreements announced by Housing Minister Eleanor Boekholt-O’Sullivan on Friday. The aim is to provide the extra places within 18 months, without using existing social housing, the ministry said. [1]

The agreements bring together central government, provinces, municipalities and housing associations. They are intended to help municipalities catch up on housing people who have been granted the right to stay in the Netherlands but are still waiting for accommodation.

Proposed options include prefabricated homes, converting vacant offices, shared housing and temporary accommodation. The news report says the latest agreements add few new options to those already being considered. [1]

Refugee organisation VluchtelingenWerk welcomed the search for alternatives but warned that refugees should not be left for long periods in poorer-quality accommodation without a clear prospect of a permanent home. It urged authorities to set minimum standards and to consider who is placed in alternative housing, arguing that vulnerable people and families with minor children should be given social housing directly where possible. [1]