Brussels rights groups condemn planned shelter cuts
Rights groups, refugee organizations and homeless support services have condemned plans to remove 1,000 shelter spaces in Brussels, warning that the move could leave more vulnerable people without accommodation.
The cuts, due to take effect Sept. 1, have triggered protests and criticism from organizations working with homeless people and asylum seekers amid growing demand for shelter in the Belgian capital.
Samusocial, a Brussels-based organization supporting homeless people, said its network was already operating at full capacity before the planned reductions.
In July alone, 244 of the 299 families seeking accommodation could not be assisted, according to the organization.
“The removal of the 1,000 accommodation places will only exacerbate an already critical situation,” Samusocial said, warning that more families, children and vulnerable people could be left without shelter.
Waiting list grows
BelRefugees and other organizations said 1,555 people were currently waiting for accommodation through the refugee support system.
“These people are forced to wander the streets, in metro stations and parks for weeks on end,” BelRefugees said, describing the situation as incompatible with dignified living conditions.
The organizations have called on Federal Asylum and Migration Minister Anneleen Van Bossuyt to reverse the decision.
Caritas aid worker Samuel Cogolati also criticized the planned reduction, warning that shrinking reception capacity would create further social and health problems.
“More and more people are coming to us with serious mental health issues,” Cogolati said. “We need a reasonable reception model.”
Union calls move irresponsible
Synova, an independent Belgian trade union, said the decision had caused alarm across the social sector.
“This measure is brutal, irresponsible and socially unacceptable,” the union said.
NGOs and concerned citizens protested in Brussels on Tuesday evening, highlighting the growing pressure on the city’s shelter network.
Minister rejects responsibility
Van Bossuyt said she understood the pressure facing Brussels and acknowledged the complexity of the situation.
However, she rejected responsibility for providing shelter to homeless people, saying the issue falls under the authority of the Brussels Region.
“I am not responsible for providing shelter for the homeless,” Van Bossuyt said. “Until further notice, that remains the responsibility of the Brussels Region.”
Source:AA
