Safety issues at Ter Apel expose weaknesses in Dutch asylum system
In the media image: Paul Hendry vonUnsplash
Problems at the asylum application centre in Ter Apel highlight wider issues in the Dutch asylum system. In 'NRC', immigration law expert Mark Klaassen says faster procedures and better return policies are needed for asylum seekers unlikely to be granted protection.
The situation at the reception centre in Ter Apel has worsened again in recent weeks. Aid workers even felt compelled to temporarily suspend their activities outside the facility due to safety concerns. According to media reports, the disturbances are mainly caused by a relatively small group of asylum seekers who have little chance of obtaining a residence permit and remain in prolonged uncertainty
‘It’s too attractive for these men to apply for asylum’, Klaassen says. Security personnel outside the facility have limited powers and that also makes it more difficult to respond to incidents. According to Klaassen, the situation demonstrates that the asylum system is not properly equipped to quickly distinguish between people who genuinely need protection and those who are unlikely to qualify for it. He argues that an accelerated procedure should be possible for this specific group. ‘A rejection within two days, followed by the completion of the appeals process within a week, is feasible. At present, they are taking advantage of the asylum system’s bureaucratic procedures.’
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Read the full article in NRC (€, in Dutch)