rssSep 16, 2026, 07:57

COA wants to extend asylum seeker boat in Western Docklands, alderman doubtful

The Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers has requested an extension for the emergency shelter ship MS Galaxy in Amsterdam. City officials remain hesitant to grant this fifth extension due to concerns regarding the facility's long-term sustainability and humanitarian quality standards.

The Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA) has requested a fifth extension for the MS Galaxy, an emergency shelter ship currently docked in the Western Docklands of Amsterdam. The ship has served as a temporary facility for asylum seekers for four years, but Amsterdam's asylum alderman, Zita Pels, has expressed skepticism regarding another extension. City officials are currently reviewing the proposal while considering a cost-benefit analysis and the overall sustainability of the location.

The future of the vessel was previously linked to the opening of a permanent asylum seeker center in the Houthavens, which is intended to house 500 people. However, Pels is now reconsidering this link due to the ongoing national housing crisis. Previous humanitarian assessments of the MS Galaxy raised concerns regarding cramped living conditions, fire safety regulations that prevent cooking, and insufficient facilities for children. Consequently, all school-aged minors have already been relocated to other facilities as local authorities weigh the necessity of continued operations at the Western Docklands site.

Politics Lifestyle Amsterdam Netherlands World

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Based on reporting by rss. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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