Urgent help needed for children in emergency asylum shelters

Children residing in emergency asylum shelters are enduring unsafe and hazardous conditions that contravene international law, according to a Dutch Safety Board investigation spanning two years. The organization examined the living situations of around 7,000 children currently housed in crisis accommodations while awaiting the results of their asylum claims.

The report revealed that these children face non-stop noise, a complete absence of privacy, and a heightened risk of physical and sexual violence. The safety board is urging the immigration ministry to implement significant reforms within the next six months. "Emergency shelter is not normal," stated Chris van Dam, the organization's chairperson, in a statement.

"It was initially meant for a short duration, but children are now often staying in emergency shelters for years." Over 60% of asylum seekers are now residing in "emergency" shelters, which include vacant offices, ships, event halls, and temporary container homes. The safety board advocates for a long-term solution to the shelter issues, along with enhancements in emergency shelters, such as establishing a maximum stay period and enforcing quality standards.