rssMay 8, 2026, 17:21

Columnist, activist and opinion maker Karin Spaink dies at 68

Karin Spaink, a renowned Dutch columnist and activist, has passed away at the age of 68 after choosing euthanasia following a long battle with Multiple Sclerosis and cancer. Over her thirty-year career, she wrote extensively for publications such as Het Parool and was a co-founder of the digital rights organization Bits of Freedom. Spaink was also a dedicated advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and individuals with disabilities, known for her sharp opinions and commitment to personal autonomy.

Politics Technology Culture Lifestyle Health Amsterdam Netherlands

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Portable toilet fire at Beverwijk construction site, police investigating

A mobile toilet caught fire on Saturday evening at a construction site on Hoflaan in Beverwijk. Police have launched an investigation into the cause of the incident after flames rose high from the site.

1896 building permit insufficient: city center roof terrace must be removed

A homeowner in Amsterdam's city center must remove a roof terrace and external staircase by June 2026 or face a 10,000 euro fine. A judge rejected the owner's claim that a building permit from 1896 authorized the structure, noting that the terrace only appeared on aerial photos around 2012. The court ruled that enforcing regulations against unauthorized structures serves the public interest.

Explosion at home in Haarlem, police investigating

An explosive went off at a residence on Fröbelstraat in Haarlem during the night between Saturday and Sunday. The blast caused damage to the front door, and local police have launched an investigation into the incident.

Kleine Houtweg to become green cycle street, much to residents' dismay: 'It will be traffic chaos'

The Haarlem municipality plans to redevelop the Kleine Houtweg into a green bicycle street next year, incorporating new sewers and reduced car access. However, local residents are protesting the project, citing concerns that the changes will lead to significant traffic congestion in the neighborhood.

Second car fire on Bergerslaan in Beverwijk in ten days

A car caught fire on Bergerslaan in Beverwijk during the night between Saturday and Sunday. This incident marks the second vehicle fire to occur on the same street within a ten-day period.