Better organization of asylum shelters could save €1 billion, advisory councils urge

Asylum Minister Marjolein Faber could save the government 1 billion euros by reorganizing asylum shelters, according to a report from the Advisory Board on Migration (AM) and the Council for Public Administration (ROB). The councils argue that better planning could eliminate the need for expensive emergency accommodations, which are draining public funds, AD reports. In another development, ANP's sources in The Hague confirmed on Sunday that Faber has declined to approve royal honors for five individuals involved with the Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA) and other refugee organizations.

The councils' recommendations clash with Faber's plans. While she seeks to abolish the law that mandates the distribution of asylum seekers across the country, the councils suggest this is a missed opportunity to better balance the burden among municipalities. They stress that agreements on how to fairly distribute asylum seekers would address the current chaos.

The councils paint a grim picture of the current asylum system, describing the frequent setup and dismantling of emergency shelters, including those in event halls and vacation homes, as wasteful and ineffective. “This is costing a fortune in time, money, and effort,” a spokesperson for the councils said, emphasizing that such measures fail to build meaningful connections with local communities.

Instead, they advocate for practical, long-term solutions that are more cost-effective and sustainable. The councils' proposals could cut costs significantly while creating a more manageable system for both asylum seekers and local residents.

Faber has faced mounting criticism for her financial approach, particularly her plan to slash 3.5 billion euros from the COA by 2027. The Netherlands Court of Audit has warned that this drastic cut does not align with the growing number of asylum seekers expected in the coming years. The move reportedly risks pushing the asylum system further into crisis.

In the face of increasing opposition, Faber has now agreed to invest more funds into operational organizations. She has promised more clarity on this increased funding in the upcoming Spring Budget.

One of the councils' most pressing recommendations is for Faber to collaborate more closely with local governments and organizations involved in asylum reception. Municipalities have repeatedly voiced frustration over being sidelined in decision-making processes.

Faber’s proposal to extend temporary stays for refugees in “flow locations” from one to three years has sparked additional controversy. Housing Minister Mona Keijzer (BBB) has supported the plan, which aims to help refugees access housing. But the councils have warned that Faber's proposal is “naive” and lacks a solid financial plan. They argue that without a clear route to permanent housing, these temporary sites will turn into overcrowded, hopeless situations instead of providing meaningful solutions.

Faber refuses to approve royal honors for refugee advocates

In another development, sources in The Hague confirmed to ANP that Minister Marjolein Faber has refused to approve royal honors for five individuals who have worked with the COA and other refugee organizations. Faber’s decision is based on a conflict between her policy and the contributions made by these individuals. The refusal was first reported by De Telegraaf.

The nominations for royal honors, also known as "knighthoods," are reviewed by the Royal Order Chapter, which then provides advice to the relevant minister. The website of the Dutch Chancellery of Orders notes that the Chapter's recommendations carry significant weight, and a minister must present strong arguments to diverge from their advice.

"Their work directly contradicts my policy," Faber said in a statement. "I support a strict asylum policy because I want to significantly reduce both the influx of asylum seekers and the number of residence permits."

Faber does not have the authority to block already approved nominations on her own. If she cannot reach an agreement with the Royal Order Chapter, the Cabinet will make the final decision. In the event of continued disagreement, another minister may be asked to endorse the nominations.

CDA leader Henri Bontenbal expressed strong disapproval of Faber’s stance, calling it politically motivated. “Royal honors belong to society and are requested by people from society,” Bontenbal wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Should everything be politicized? Minister Faber is crossing the line here. Where are the values and norms of this Cabinet?”

However, Faber's decision has found support from her party leader, Geert Wilders. On X, Wilders backed the Minister, stating, “Why should we reward people who contribute to pampering asylum seekers with a Royal honor? Great move by Faber.”