haarlemsdagbladMay 11, 2026, 16:57

No concrete plans, but anti-asylum center protest in Hillegom. Organizer cannot guarantee peace: 'No idea who will show up'

A preventive demonstration against the potential establishment of an asylum seeker center is scheduled for May 12 in Hillegom, despite no concrete plans being on the local council's agenda. The organizer stated the event is a proactive measure but admitted they cannot guarantee it will remain peaceful due to uncertainty over who will attend.

Politics Netherlands

Read original ↗

Based on reporting by haarlemsdagblad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Opinion: Experiment with cyclists on Amstelveenseweg is a dangerous signal: just remove the parking lane

The experimental speed limit for cyclists on Amsterdam's Amstelveenseweg is criticized as a misdirected effort that fails to address the underlying infrastructure problems. Critics advocate for removing car parking lanes to provide more space for cyclists and moving all motorized vehicles off the bike paths to ensure better safety.

Politics on the Amstel: City hall reorganization falters and striking ban on the way

Journalists discussed current policy challenges in Amsterdam, including the effectiveness of the 30 km/h speed limit and a potential ban on single-use packaging. The panel also reviewed Mayor Halsema's leadership and the struggling reorganization of the municipal civil service.

Less demand, no lower prices: new housing market struggles due to high interest rates and small homes

High mortgage interest rates are reducing demand for new-build homes in the Netherlands, as developers maintain high, rigid prices despite falling interest from buyers. Additionally, government mandates for affordable housing are resulting in smaller properties that increasingly fail to align with consumer preferences, further threatening future project completions.

Student loan interest cap scheme fails, rates likely to rise even faster in coming years

The Dutch government has failed to implement a planned interest rate cap on student loans due to insufficient budget and rising global rates. Minister Rianne Letschert is now seeking alternative support measures, while student organizations have expressed strong opposition to the news.

National Slavery Museum: what is the current status?

The National Slavery Museum in the Netherlands is currently under development, though it has encountered delays in its construction schedule. The project remains a significant effort to document and reflect upon the country's history of slavery.