Netherlands municipalities suspend asylum centre expansions amid local opposition

The municipality of Rijswijk announced it will close its asylum seekers centre on Lange Kleiweg in May 2027, ending accommodation for 350 people. The council will submit a zero‑bid to the national government, arguing that it has already met its dispersal‑law quota of 291 places and that other municipalities should assume responsibility. Opposition parties criticised the move as a breach of national and international obligations.

In The Hague, social‑welfare councillor Arjen Dubbelaar urged the Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA) to halt further intake of unaccompanied minor migrants at the Javastraat location. Of the planned 45 minors, 28 are already housed, and local residents have expressed concerns about safety, livability and the limited outdoor space. The councillor asked for a temporary suspension to allow a comprehensive review after the summer recess.