On March 27, a new chapter began for Ukrainian newcomers in Amsterdam North with the opening of a new reception location in Amerbos. The event also marked the introduction of the Together project in this space, in collaboration with Academie van de Stad.
The opening brought together around 50 participants, including Ukrainians and so-called third-country nationals, people of other nationalities who had been living in Ukraine before the war. The atmosphere was warm and vibrant, combining cultural exchange, community building, and creative expression.
A shared dinner featuring traditional borscht set the tone for the evening, offering both comfort and familiarity. Following the meal, the Road of Hope project coordinator Alina Bielun , and Suzanne from Academie van de Stad, introduced the Together project through a video presentation, outlining its goals and activities. The program continued with a spring-themed workshop led by art craft master Pani Olha, in collaboration with ua.etnic.craft. The session explored Ukrainian spring traditions, connecting participants to their cultural roots while fostering a sense of belonging in a new environment.
Launched in 2022, the “Together” project has supported Ukrainian newcomers across several locations in Amsterdam, including Ru Paré, Riekerhoff, and Botel. Now active in Amerbos and Melkweg, the initiative continues to expand its reach. Its mission is to help newcomers navigate their new reality by offering emotional support through art, cultural workshops, and open dialogue sessions. By creating welcoming spaces, the project encourages integration into Dutch society.
The initiative comes at a critical time. As of early 2026, approximately 135,000 displaced Ukrainian are living in the Netherlands under the Temporary Protection Directive, a European Union measure that grants access to work, healthcare, and education. The directive has been extended until March 2026 at the EU level, with provisions in the Netherlands allowing protection until March 2027.
Despite these protections, many refugees face ongoing challenges, particularly in housing. A shortage of long-term accommodation has left many in temporary and often crowded shelters. Since July 2024, those who are employed are also required to contribute financially to their accommodation. Meanwhile, protections for non-Ukrainian nationals who had been residing in Ukraine ended in September 2025, adding further complexity to the situation.
The Dutch government is currently developing a long-term strategy to transition from collective emergency support to more sustainable solutions for those likely to remain in the country. In this context, initiatives like “Together” play a vital role. Beyond practical support, they offer something equally essential: a sense of community, dignity, and hope.