A Dictionary of Dutchness

COA

The Centraal Orgaan opvang Asielzoekers (central agency for the reception of asylum seekers) is responsible for looking after asylum seekers. The COA provides accommodation during the asylum procedure and prepares asylum seekers for either staying in the Netherlands or returning to their country of origin. It manages some 70 refugee centres which are home to some 20,000 men, women and children.