Arnhem Mayor Calls for National Support Amidst Ongoing Nuisance Issues
Arnhem, Netherlands – Arnhem Mayor Ahmed Marcouch is appealing to The Hague for assistance in addressing ongoing issues wiht nuisance caused by young Syrian asylum seekers, especially around arnhem Central Station. The call for help follows similar concerns raised by mayors in Utrecht, Groningen, Den Bosch, Nijmegen, and Eindhoven, signaling a growing nationwide challenge.
The situation in Arnhem mirrors problems experienced in other Dutch cities, where groups of young, male asylum seekers have been linked to disturbances and anti-social behavior. Marcouch emphasizes the need for a swift resolution to asylum applications – accelerated processing for minors – to provide clarity and direction for these individuals, whether through integration support or deportation. “These young people need viewpoint,” Marcouch stated,adding that action needs to begin “on day one” regardless of the outcome of their asylum claims.
The concerns initially surfaced in May when Utrecht Mayor Sharon Dijksma alerted the national goverment to similar issues.The cabinet subsequently urged municipalities to proactively address the nuisance. Measures implemented at Utrecht Central Station to prevent disruption have been extended until November 2026.
Outgoing Minister of Asylum and Migration, Van Weel (VVD), acknowledged the complexities of the situation, stating that deportation is the priority for those without a right to stay, while a more nuanced approach is required for those granted residence permits. Outgoing Minister Mona Keijzer (BBB) has committed to discussing the specific challenges in Arnhem with Mayor Marcouch tomorrow, while acknowledging existing legal constraints.