The Dutch cabinet has formally apologised to young people who spent time in secure youth care facilities, acknowledging that the institutions failed to provide a safe environment and in some cases left lasting psychological scars. Ministers admitted that decades of inadequate oversight, insufficient staffing and outdated approaches to treatment allowed harmful practices to persist.
The apology follows a damning investigation by an independent committee, which documented numerous incidents of physical restraint used without proper justification, prolonged isolation and a lack of meaningful educational or rehabilitation programmes. The report concluded that many adolescents were retraumatised rather than rehabilitated, leaving them vulnerable to further social exclusion upon release.
Key findings from the investigation
- Routine use of solitary confinement, sometimes lasting days or weeks
- Overreliance on coercive measures instead of tailored mental health support
- Poor living conditions, including overcrowded rooms and limited recreation time
- Insufficient training for staff in de-escalation techniques
- Lack of transparent complaints procedures for residents
In parliament, Minister for Legal Protection Franc Weerwind expressed regret “on behalf of the entire cabinet” and vowed to implement all recommendations from the report within the next two years. He announced a dedicated taskforce to monitor progress, a significant increase in staffing levels and an overhaul of the curriculum to prioritise psychological well-being and life skills.
Survivors of secure care welcomed the apology but urged swift action. “Words are important,” said one former resident, “but we need to see concrete changes—better training for staff, more one-on-one counselling and real channels to report abuse without fear of retaliation.”
Next steps for reform
- Establishment of an independent oversight body with the power to conduct unannounced inspections
- Mandatory trauma-informed care training for all secure youth care employees
- Creation of a 24/7 helpline for residents and their families
- Revised guidelines limiting the use and duration of solitary confinement
- Annual progress reports to parliament and stakeholders
Child welfare organisations have welcomed the government’s proposals but stress the importance of long-term commitment. “Healing deep wounds takes time,” noted the director of one NGO, “and we must guard against reforms losing momentum once the public spotlight fades.”
As the Netherlands moves to rectify past failures, the wellbeing of some of its most vulnerable citizens remains at the heart of the debate. The coming months will reveal whether the cabinet’s promises translate into a safer, more supportive system for young people in care.