rssFeb 12, 2026, 13:31

A coffee with Chris de Ploeg (De Vonk): 'Amsterdam is becoming unaffordable for more and more people'

Chris de Ploeg, the lead candidate for the political party De Vonk, outlined his party's platform for the Amsterdam municipal elections, focusing on making the city more affordable for low-income residents. Key proposals include maintaining metro line 53, implementing a total boycott of Israel, and increasing oversight of police officers. The party, which formed after a split from BIJ1, aims to combat poverty and homelessness by strengthening community centers and labor unions.

Politics Economy Lifestyle Amsterdam Netherlands

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Everything about King's Day: Flea markets, public transport tips, and more news from this week

Amsterdam is preparing for King's Day with traditional flea markets and city-wide celebrations. This week's update offers practical advice, including public transport tips, to help residents and visitors navigate the Dutch national holiday.

Provincial councillor leaves party and remains absent for months

North Holland provincial representative Maik de Weerdt has been absent from legislative meetings for months since leaving the Volt party to form his own faction in December 2025. Despite missing approximately 15 meetings at the Provincial House in Haarlem, he has continued to receive his monthly allowance of roughly 2,250 euros. De Weerdt recently responded to the controversy by stating he intends to return to his duties next month.

The Greenhouse | Facts once again seem to matter little in the climate debate

Climate reporter Jeroen Kraan discusses how factual education about climate change fails to significantly shift public opinion. He highlights that even a crash course on the subject does not alter perspectives, presenting a discouraging finding for climate journalists in the Netherlands.

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.

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.