Is there a demonstration near your reception centre? Here is what you can do if you feel unsafe
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In recent weeks, there have been demonstrations in various parts of the Netherlands, both against and in support of reception locations. This can feel unsettling or unsafe. For example, because of crowds, noise, the police or angry chants. In this article, you can find out what to do if you have any questions or concerns.
There may be a demonstration at your reception centre
In recent months, there have been increasing numbers of demonstrations in the Netherlands against the reception of asylum seekers. This is because people do not want asylum seekers to be received in their municipality. Violence is increasingly being used at these protests, leading to riots. This could also happen near your reception location.
These kinds of demonstrations do not take place everywhere in the Netherlands. Most people in the Netherlands believe that asylum seekers should be received. Also in their own municipality.
However, if there are demonstrations in the municipality where your reception centre is located, you might notice something. The area may be busier than usual. You may also hear noise and shouting, or see police or security personnel on the streets. Sometimes roads are closed, or you may need to take a different route.
You do not have to go to the demonstrations
Do you feel at home in the reception centre where you live? If so, there is no need to go outside to see what is happening. It is better to stay somewhere where you feel safe. You do not need to engage with the demonstrators either.
You can stay in your own room, or at the homes of other residents or people you trust. Do not get into an argument with demonstrators.
Ask for help if you feel unsafe
Are you feeling scared, angry, anxious or unsafe? If so, speak to someone at your location. You could, for example, speak to a COA staff member or a member of security.
They can advise you on the best course of action. They can also help if you have any questions about the situation.
Call 112 in the event of immediate danger
Call 112 on your phone if you or someone else is in immediate danger. For example, in the event of violence, a fire, a serious threat or loud fireworks being set off near people. You should also call if someone is injured or if a situation is getting out of hand and is becoming dangerous. You can call 112 in English or Dutch. However, they can also arrange an interpreting service for you.
There is also a 112NL app available in these 18 languages: Dutch, Arabic, Bulgarian, Chinese, German, English, Spanish, Farsi, French, Hungarian, Italian, Lithuanian, Ukrainian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian and Turkish.
How does the 112NL app work?
You can contact the emergency services in the Netherlands via the 112NL app. When you download the app, you can enter your personal details. These details are sent to the emergency services when you make a call, so that they can assist you more effectively and quickly. Your location is also sent automatically.
The app also allows you to chat with the emergency services. The chat function can translate the conversation into 109 different languages.
Who is the 112NL app for?
The 112NL app is available for anyone to download and offers an additional way to contact the emergency services in the Netherlands. The app has been specifically designed for situations where you are unable or afraid to speak, for deaf and hard-of-hearing people, and for those who do not speak Dutch well.
Download the app
Download the app and fill in the required details. Do this before you find yourself in an emergency. That way, the app will be ready to use when every second counts.
If there is no immediate danger but you would like to report something to the police, please call 0900 8844. The police also make use of interpreting services.
Demonstrating is allowed, but violence and threats are not
A demonstration can be very stressful. Especially if there is a lot of noise, fireworks are being set off or people are shouting loudly. For people who have experienced war, violence or danger, this can be particularly difficult.
It is normal to feel scared, angry or sad. You might also find it hard to sleep, feel a lot of tension in your body, or find yourself thinking about unpleasant experiences again.
Talk to the COA or
Please do not film or photograph the demonstrators
Please do not film or photograph the demonstrators. This may lead to further tension or arguments. Also, do not stand too close to a demonstration to take photos or videos.
Please do not share images online in which other residents are clearly recognisable. Not everyone wants to be recognisable on the internet. For some people, this could be unsafe.
Follow reliable information
The situation may change. You should therefore follow the guidance provided by the COA, the municipality and the police. Ask the COA or security staff at the site what the key points are at that moment.
Have you seen posts on social media? Not everything you see online is true. If in doubt, ask RefugeeHelp,
You are not on your own
Do you feel unsafe or are you worried? You do not have to deal with this on your own. Ask for help from the COA, VluchtelingenWerk Nederland (VWN), security staff or someone you trust.
In the event of immediate danger, always call 112.