# Workplace misconduct at Silja asylum ship

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/workplace-misconduct-at-silja-asylum-ship
> Updated: 2026-10-29T15:14:50.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

The Central Agency for Asylum Seekers (COA) admitted to a delayed response regarding reports of integrity and social safety issues on the Silja asylum ship in Rotterdam. Employees reported a culture of fear characterized by high turnover and intimidation. Allegations included racism and sexism, with staff members reporting derogatory language directed at those wearing hijabs or burkas, and management using discriminatory terms toward employees with migration backgrounds.

Following these revelations, a majority in the Rotterdam city council expressed support for closing the vessel as a shelter for status holders. Council members described the working atmosphere as “totally toxic” and called for alternative locations for the approximately 2,000 residents. The COA has commissioned an independent fact-finding investigation into the allegations of misconduct.

## Claims

- A majority in the Rotterdam city council supports ending the use of the Silja ship for asylum seekers. (reported by 3 sources)
- COA employees reported experiencing racism, sexism, and intimidation by managers on the Silja. (reported by 3 sources)
- The Silja ship houses approximately 2,000 people. (reported by 3 sources)
- The COA has started an independent fact-finding investigation. (reported by 3 sources)
- Previous complaints included poor hygiene and lack of privacy for residents. (reported by 3 sources)
- Doctors previously reported violence and threats on board. (reported by 3 sources)
- A majority in the Rotterdam city council supports ending the use of the Silja ship for asylum seeker housing. (reported by 3 sources)
- There are approximately 2,000 people currently housed on the Silja. (reported by 3 sources)
- The COA has initiated an independent fact-finding investigation into the situation on the ship. (reported by 3 sources)
- Previous complaints regarding the Silja included poor hygiene and a lack of privacy for residents. (reported by 3 sources)
- Doctors have previously reported violence, threats, and potential abuse on board the ship. (reported by 3 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-10-29: Rotterdam council seeks to close Silja asylum seeker ship

Rotterdam officials are moving to close the Silja asylum seeker ship following reports of racism, sexism, and management intimidation affecting staff and residents.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rotterdam-council-considers-closing-silja-asylum-ship

### 2026-10-19: COA acknowledges delayed response to safety reports on Silja asylum ship

The COA admits it failed to act promptly on reports of racism and intimidation by managers at the Silja asylum ship in Rotterdam. An independent investigation has been launched.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/coa-acknowledges-delayed-response-to-safety-reports-on-silja-asylum-ship

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Cite as: Workplace misconduct at Silja asylum ship. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/workplace-misconduct-at-silja-asylum-ship