Aargau is creating 100 new accommodation places for underage asylum seekers

The decision was made by 124 votes to 10. All parties supported the action. However, part of the SVP group refused the loan. Asylum and immigration policy was cited as the reason for the number.

The supporters, however, said that there were no other options than the project. There is a duty of care for young children. The aim is to integrate well the minority asylum seekers (UMA) designated by the federal government. They should complete vocational training and thus be ready for an independent life.

The people only live in supported living until they are 18 years old. It was stated in Parliament that a follow-up solution was needed for young adults.

Long-term solutions are needed

Responsible government adviser Jean-Pierre Gallati (SVP) said that 99 percent of these young people would stay in Switzerland. “We are looking for solutions for the next 70 to 80 years of these young people’s lives. We have to unite them.”

The canton of Aargau wants to be ready for the future with the 100 additional places. According to the canton, the existing buildings have been overcrowded since the beginning of 2023, creating 195 additional places. So the current 373 places are 87 percent full.

In order for more places to be available quickly, the Department of Health and Social Affairs (DGS) led by government adviser Jean-Pierre Gallati (SVP) is responsible for the form of supported living. This type of care is already being used successfully in other cantons, it was said.

Collaboration with two organizations

Accommodation at independent UMA, over the age of 16 and over, would be in decentralized residential groups. Caregivers visited the young people weekly, initially and more often if necessary.

These people would accompany the younger people as needed on the way to an independent and responsible life. This work is undertaken by the association Lernwerk in Windisch and the Turning Point Foundation in Muhen. The canton made the corresponding commitments.