320 Ukrainian refugees remain in Antwerp shelter as closure deadline passes
The emergency village for Ukrainian refugees on Antwerp's Left Bank officially closed today, but 320 residents remain despite previous warnings, reports VRT NWS. The city of Antwerp has announced that it will issue formal notices of default next week, followed by legal action through the Peace Court if necessary.
Residents were already informed in November 2023 that the site would be closed in January 2025. A final notice was sent in October 2024 confirming the closure date of 24 January 2025.
Finding affordable housing in Antwerp is very difficult, especially for families with more than two children
"Finding affordable housing in Antwerp is very difficult, especially for families with more than two children," said resident Vladlena Yaroshenko-Kartavykh, who will be moving into a city centre apartment next week. "Many Ukrainians simply cannot afford higher rents."
The city plans to inspect the site next week to identify remaining residents. "Those still living in the emergency village will receive formal notices, followed by legal proceedings through the peace court," city spokeswoman Liesbeth De Maeyer confirmed.
Short-term shelter
The emergency village was set up in April 2022 as a temporary shelter for Ukrainian refugees. It was intended to be a short-term shelter with essential facilities, not a long-term residence while residents sought private housing or prepared to return to Ukraine.
At its peak, the village housed 778 refugees, of whom 320 remain. The ongoing housing crisis has been a major obstacle, especially for larger families. Organisations such as the Centre for General Welfare (CAW) have worked to help residents secure housing, but challenges remain.
#FlandersNewsService | © BELGA PHOTO TIJS VANDERSTAPPEN
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