The call arises from signals that Van der Plas receives that women feel unsafe in shelter locations.
The BBB leader receives reports of women allegedly being harassed, having to be constantly vigilant, or taking turns “keeping watch” while the other tries to sleep. “We hear stories about women who keep watch, sleep four hours and the other one keeps watch,” says Van der Plas.
Saskia Belleman about femicide: ‘Even if they have committed the ultimate act, they do not have the courage to take responsibility for it’
She sees visible warnings as a way to create awareness about the vulnerable position of women, similar to how LGBTI+ flags draw attention to the safety and acceptance of that group.
Azc return signs Faber
Van der Plas’ plan is reminiscent of an earlier proposal by then asylum minister Marjolein Faber (PVV). The PVV member proposed placing warning or return signs at asylum centers, with texts such as: “We are working on your return here.”
The minister claimed to have seen the signs in Denmark, but her ministry denied this. It led to heated discussion, after which a majority of the House of Representatives supported CDA leader Henri Bontenbal’s call to abandon this.
Marjolein Faber (PVV) during the weekly question time in the plenary hall of the House of Representatives. © ANP
In Tuesday’s debate, Keijzer acknowledges the concerns about the safety of women, but comments on the usefulness of flags. According to Keijzer, the emphasis is rather on better enforcement. As far as Van der Plas is concerned, it should not become a ‘flag parade’, but “the men must above all behave normally.”
