Dutch ombudsmen warn against stricter asylum laws, urge Senate scrutiny

ISTANBUL

Dutch ombudsmen are warning about new asylum laws and urged the Senate to critically examine the legislation, the NOS broadcaster reported Tuesday.

The ombudsmen voiced concern about the laws that are currently before the Senate after a majority in the House of Representatives approved two in late 2025, specifically citing the criminalization of illegal residence, warning about its consequences for children.

"If parents are criminalized, it affects their children," said Children's Ombudsman Margrite Kalverboer.

She urged the Senate to request a child rights assessment.

Ombudsmen also criticized laws shortening the validity of residence permits from five to three years, and tightening restrictions on bringing family members to the Netherlands.

They voiced fear that the new laws could lead to longer waiting times throughout the asylum procedure.

"The way the government treats tens of thousands of asylum seekers and status holders has reached the lower limit," according to National Ombudsman Reinier van Zutphen.

ISTANBUL

Dutch ombudsmen are warning about new asylum laws and urged the Senate to critically examine the legislation, the NOS broadcaster reported Tuesday.

"If parents are criminalized, it affects their children," said Children's Ombudsman Margrite Kalverboer.

She urged the Senate to request a child rights assessment.

Ombudsmen also criticized laws shortening the validity of residence permits from five to three years, and tightening restrictions on bringing family members to the Netherlands.

They voiced fear that the new laws could lead to longer waiting times throughout the asylum procedure.

"The way the government treats tens of thousands of asylum seekers and status holders has reached the lower limit," according to National Ombudsman Reinier van Zutphen.