Decades of abuse exposed at Dutch youth care institution De Glind

A new investigation has revealed decades of serious misconduct at De Glind, a youth care organization in the Netherlands. The abuses, which included emotional, physical, and sexual violence, first came to light in 2022. Researchers now confirm that the wrongdoing persisted for years under the oversight of Pluryn, the organization responsible for the institution.

The investigation involved interviews with 150 former residents, focusing on young people aged 6 to 18 who stayed at De Glind between 1965 and 1995. Many described enduring severe mistreatment during their time there.

Researchers faced significant obstacles while gathering evidence. Pluryn, the body managing the facility, resisted full cooperation. The organization cited privacy laws and efforts to protect its reputation as reasons for withholding information.

The report highlights how Pluryn's lack of transparency delayed a thorough examination of the abuses. Without open access to records and staff accounts, key details remained hidden for years.

The findings underscore the need for stronger safeguards in youth care systems. A shift toward greater transparency and a learning culture has been recommended to prevent similar failures. Without these changes, the risk of unchecked misconduct in such institutions remains.