The Hague Councilor Arjen Dubbelaar Pushes for Pause on Youth Asylum Centre at Javastraat

Councilor Arjen Dubbelaar of the Hart voor Den Haag coalition has asked the Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA) to halt the placement of additional unaccompanied minor asylum seekers in the Javastraat 86 facility. The building is intended for 45 boys aged 15‑18, of which 37 were already housed and 28 had been reported a week earlier. Dubbelaar argues the COA ignored a prior agreement for a phased, cautious intake, and he fears overcrowding and inadequate space could spark unrest.

Local residents have signed a petition with over 700 signatures, expressing concerns about the cramped conditions and lack of outdoor space. A neighbourhood group, Comité Nieuwe Vrienden, has mobilised volunteers to welcome the youths, but the councilor emphasises the need for the COA to respect the agreed‑upon process and to discuss future cooperation with the agency.