Minister: goal for zero homelessness by 2030 scrapped

Long-term care minister Mirjam Sterk informed parliament that the Dutch government's goal of achieving a zero homelessness rate by 2030 is unattainable. The fourth Rutte cabinet established this goal in 2022 within its National Action Plan for Homelessness, aimed at transitioning from temporary emergency shelters to permanent housing, backed by a €450 million annual budget.

Despite the minister's pledge to remain committed, her announcement surprised many MPs, who viewed it as a sign of indifference. Socialist party SP MP Sandra Beckerman expressed disappointment, while parliament members from other parties also expressed their lack of confidence in the government's ability to address the issue. In response, mayors of four major Dutch cities, along with 40 other large councils, wrote a letter to the House of Representatives, requesting an additional €100 million to provide more emergency shelters and support for treating drug addiction.

The mayors argued that the current deficit is only growing, as reception locations are already at capacity. The minister explained that the extra funds will not be granted until the Chamber clarifies how the current budget is allocated, and no new targets have been set. As of now, approximately 33,000 Dutch citizens between the ages of 18 and 65 lack a permanent residence, with the majority residing in large cities.

The actual number might be higher, as the extent of individuals staying with family or friends remains unknown.