Heumensoord center. Photo: Flip Franssen ANP/HH

The National Ombudsman and the Dutch Human Rights Commission stated that the emergency refugee center in Heumensoord, Gelderland, is not suitable for use in winter and must be an emergency to find suitable accommodation for residents.

The two organizations have sent a letter to Junior Attorney General Ankie Broekers-Knol, urging her to propose a permanent solution for the current residents-mainly from Afghanistan, including 450 children.

These agencies stated that people have been living in large tents since they were evacuated from Kabul, which is not suitable for more than a few weeks.

The letter said that because the refugees work for the Dutch, the government may feel that they have more responsibility for the refugees, but their current living environment is "worse than a normal refugee center."

Officials praised the staff for their best efforts, but said, for example, the lack of privacy. The bedroom has no ceiling and is separated by a thin wall. "Everyone can hear everything from talking to children crying."

Coupled with the uncertainty about the future, refugees have health problems such as stress, insomnia and depression. "This will also have an impact on their future integration into Dutch society," said inspector Reinier van Zutphen. "People who are allowed to stay here can begin to integrate quickly and be healthy. This is in everyone's interest."

The recent surge in the number of refugees, coupled with the shortage of ordinary housing for those granted residency, has resulted in overcrowding in existing centers and widespread use of temporary options such as tents and gymnasiums.

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