Beyond the gray
Assignment for Synchroon
2020

A journey through the Netherlands where I passed the most problematic neighborhoods. At least according to a government-issued study.

The label of problem neighborhood immediately gives many people an image of gray flats,  poor living conditions, gangs ruling the streets, to be short: an area to avoid. But is that true? And does such a label not put even more pressure on a neighborhood. I went to six of the most problematic neighborhoods in the Netherlands to talk to the residents about their neighborhood, what they like about it and what can be improved. Conclusion: Of course there are problems and sometimes serious ones, but what seems; most people really look after each other, there is a strong connection between the residents and they wouldn't leave for the world.