Court Case on Closure of Bed-Bad-Brood Shelter for Undocumented Migrants in Rotterdam

A Rotterdam court is reviewing whether the former Minister of Asylum and Migration had the authority to close the bed-bad-brood shelter for 23 undocumented migrants. Lawyer Pim Fischer argues the Minister violates EU law by evicting migrants, asserting they are entitled to minimum care even if they don’t cooperate with their return.

He also claims the restricted freedom location in Ter Apel is unsuitable for vulnerable individuals.

Jules de Kort, representing the Minister, maintains that undocumented migrants only have the right to shelter if they cooperate with their departure. He believes necessary medical care is available at Ter Apel, and that the migrants do not have a right to shelter beyond that.

Maarten Goezinnen, a caseworker, expresses doubt, citing his experience with the restricted freedom location, where many migrants are not allowed to stay, and even those who are face uncertain prospects. The case is being closely watched in The Hague, as the Senate is about to vote on criminalizing illegal immigration.