rssFeb 18, 2026, 13:05

Heated Stek Oost debate ends in motion of censure supported only by part of the opposition

Amsterdam city councilors Zita Pels and Rutger Groot Wassink faced an interpellation debate on Wednesday regarding safety concerns at Stek Oost, a housing complex for refugees and young starters. Opposition parties filed motions of censure against the officials for their perceived lack of action, but these were ultimately rejected by a majority of the council. Despite the criticism, the officials defended the city's mixed-living housing model and the measures taken to address the reported safety issues.

Politics Lifestyle Amsterdam Netherlands

Read original ↗

From broken frame to trust: how an e-bike saga ended well

Ron Poppen experienced a spontaneous frame break on his e-bike, later discovering a recall campaign he had not been notified about. He shared his story with the 'Klasse' column to describe how the situation was eventually resolved and his trust was restored.

After birth doulas, end-of-life and grief doulas emerge: Westerners are not raised with the principle that death is part of life

Following the popularity of birth doulas, a new wave of end-of-life and grief doulas is emerging to provide support during the dying process and bereavement. Three doulas explain their specialized roles in helping individuals and families navigate the final stages of life, addressing a cultural discomfort with death.

Ingeborg supports people in the final stages of life: 'Some reveal their deepest secrets. People who won’t get better have a lot to tell'

Ingeborg Robijn, a 49-year-old end-of-life doula based in Hilversum, provides support to individuals during their final phase of life. She transitioned from a career as a civil servant to help people navigate the dying process, which she views as a deeply authentic human experience.

Tinka parks in Hoofddorp, pays, and is shocked by the costs

A woman named Tinka received financial compensation after filing a formal complaint regarding unexpectedly high parking fees in Hoofddorp. Her experience highlights how a well-structured complaint can lead to a positive financial resolution for consumers.

After her father's death, Kim became a death doula: ‘In this controllable society, we avoid the subject of dying’

Kim Oostveen, an Amsterdam-based end-of-life doula, supports individuals across North Holland as they navigate the end of their lives. Inspired by her father's passing, she transitioned from healthcare management to helping clients address unresolved emotions and final messages.