Residents fear eviction as Fredrikstad camp closure deadline approaches

Life has been wonderful in Fredrikstad so far, but now we are sad and worried about the future,” said Ion Călin during a meeting in September. Unfortunately, Călin’s fears have now become a reality. For over ten years, an agreement between the Roma community and the municipality ensured that he and his wife could live at a camp in Kiæråsen, Lisleby. However, it has now been decided that the camp will be closed by January 1, 2025.

Approximately 40 residents currently live in the camp. The issue of closing the Roma camp was on the agenda at the first city council meeting in September, but the council didn’t get to discuss it. Twelve days later, the decision was finalized.

Călin expressed despair about the situation in their home country, stating, “There are no jobs for us there. Here, at least, we can return some bottles, do a little begging, and receive some help. We are very sad that the politicians want to shut down the camp.”

His wife also shares his concerns about the impending closure. Siri Martinsen, the leader of the Fredrikstad Labour Party, expressed profound disappointment, calling the decision a ruthless exercise of power with significant consequences for people’s lives. She noted that there is no alternative accommodation for those living in the camp, suggesting that the only option would be to live under benches around the city.

In contrast, local official Bjørnar Laabak of the Progress Party (FrP) argued that the camp, which costs the municipality 750,000 kroner annually, should be removed. He stated that it is a refuge that the municipality should not maintain, emphasizing the need to clear out the old camping trailers and other belongings from the site.

Once the camp closes, Călin and his family plan to pack their belongings and find a new location to set up camp, potentially in Domkirkeparken, as they have no other options and need a place to live. “We are very, very sad,” Călin added.