In Berlin-Dahlem, plans to construct a refugee container village for 260 individuals on a vacant university site have caused controversy. The Free University has expressed opposition to the idea, as they intended to build a structure for academic purposes on the same land. The university’s leadership was reportedly not consulted on this matter and felt disregarded by the Senate’s plans. Despite being willing to assist refugees within their means, the university highlighted the urgent need for the land for their own construction projects post-2023.
Moreover, the university mentioned an alternative vacant building nearby, previously used to house refugees until 2017, suggesting it as a more suitable location for temporary accommodations. The Senate’s Flüchtlingsfragen Special Commissioner, Broemme, emphasized the need to utilize unused spaces to shelter refugees effectively, indicating that while the development may be delayed, considerations regarding environmental impact must be addressed.
The Senate recently approved the establishment of 16 additional container villages, acknowledging the persistent housing shortage for refugees in the city. While the focus is on setting up these facilities predominantly in the eastern part of Berlin, local municipalities like Pankow are already shouldering a significant refugee population share. The announcement of new locations has sparked mixed reactions, with some questioning the Free University’s stance, given its progressive image and advocacy for social issues. The debate underscores the complexities and challenges surrounding refugee accommodation in a city faced with both housing shortages and public resistance.
