The Valencian regional government has ordered the immediate closure of a residential facility for Dutch minors located in Aspe due to a lack of the required operating licences, which violates regional inclusive social services legislation.
Sources from the regional Department of Social Services, Family and Childhood confirmed that the immediate cessation of activities at the premises has been demanded. The department, led by Councillor Elena Albalat, noted that if the closure is not carried out, a disciplinary proceeding will be launched against the centre and further legal measures could be taken.
Recently, the Síndic de Greuges of the Valencian Community opened an ex officio complaint to clarify the conditions of care and treatment provided to the minors residing at the facility. This action followed media reports originating from Dutch public television regarding alleged restrictive practices and potential breaches of European regulations at the complex, which houses Dutch minors with behavioural issues.
The reports highlighted prior reports and actions by various child protection bodies in the Netherlands concerning this facility.
According to the investigation initiation resolution signed on 21st September by the Valencian ombudsman, Ángel Luna, the inquiry aims to determine whether fundamental children’s rights have been violated, including physical and psychological integrity, protection against violence, and the best interests of the child.
The document stresses that any minor in Spanish territory is protected by national and regional child protection legislation regardless of nationality. It also emphasises that the best interests of the child must prevail in any action affecting them, and that children and adolescents have the right to proper treatment and protection against all forms of violence.
The resolution highlights that the situation described in the media has caused significant concern for the Síndic de Greuges, noting that confirming these facts and the lack of communication from Dutch authorities to the competent administration in the Valencian Community would place the minors in a position of even greater defencelessness and vulnerability.
Luna has requested that the department detail within one month whether the centre informed the regional administration of its opening, whether it holds the corresponding licences, and the date from which it has operated. He also asked whether the centre is subject to the same regulations and protocols as child and adolescent protection facilities in the region or if different rules apply, and whether any inspections have been carried out, their motivations, current status, and any follow-up actions. Additionally, the ombudsman requested information on whether the department was aware of the situation at the centre prior to media reports.
