Samenvatting

The aim of this thesis is to explain the conflict between local and national government about crisis shelters for ex-asylum seekers, asylum seekers and those in regular procedures. In this thesis laws and regulations are explained to identify the groups of asylum seekers and ex-asylum seekers which have no right to government care. Attention is given to the fact that ex-asylum seekers in regular procedures have no right to reception facilities. Crisis shelters have long existed in the Netherlands, but the official municipal crisis shelters started in 2001. Municipalities were given responsibilities to evict certain ex-asylum seekers from their homes, consequently forming crisis shelters. Crisis shelters were formed considering the effect (ex) asylum seekers with no means of survival would have on municipal society. A case study on the crisis shelter in The Hague is presented and alternative forms of support are listed. Guidance by a crisis shelter can offer a valuable and durable solution to its clients. The conflict that arose between local and national government over sheltering certain groups of (ex) asylum seekers is described and explained. The conflict is illustrated and explained through laws, literature, newspaper articles and different ethical perspectives. What has been done to solve conflict up to the pardon agreement is mentioned. Following it is discussed whether the pardon agreement could be a solution to this conflict or not. This thesis argues that the pardon agreement is a positive step, however not a solution. Municipalities plan on continuing giving shelter to those in need.
The thesis concludes by making recommendations on how to solve the conflict, suggesting further research and by sharing some food