paroolOct 19, 2026, 18:00

Victims of the benefits scandal assisted by ‘listening writers’: ‘I want them to see the human behind the ID number’

The foundation Gelijkwaardig Herstel is assisting victims of the Dutch childcare benefits scandal by helping them apply for additional compensation. Volunteers known as listening writers collaborate with affected parents to document their personal experiences and facts into a written narrative, allowing them to present their stories more effectively during the recovery process.

Politics Culture Netherlands

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

Rob Jetten and Nico Keenan are expecting a baby: ‘We are eternally grateful to our egg donor and surrogate’

Dutch politician Rob Jetten and his partner Nico Keenan are expecting a baby in the spring of 2027 through a non-commercial surrogacy arrangement. The couple expressed their deep gratitude to the egg donor and surrogate, while asking for privacy for everyone involved.

Princess Amalia promoted to sergeant 9 months after appointment as corporal

Princess Amalia has been promoted to the rank of sergeant by the Royal Netherlands Navy after serving nine months as a corporal. The promotion took place on the Norwegian vessel Statsraad Lehmkuhl in Den Helder as part of her ongoing military internship.

The Greenhouse | I prefer to jump on the facts rather than the barricade

A climate journalist explores the tension between objective reporting and the pressure to advocate for systemic change to combat the climate crisis. The author concludes that journalists should remain factual rather than activist to effectively reach a wide and diverse audience.

Amsterdam invests 2.5 million euros in five community centers, H-buurt to get large meeting place with music studio

Amsterdam is investing 2.5 million euros to open and renovate five community centers to combat social isolation and improve neighborhood stability. The initiative includes a major new facility in the H-buurt and upgrades to existing spaces across various city districts to support residents facing poverty and other challenges.

No new snack bars near schools? Amsterdam looks for legal ways to limit unhealthy food options

Amsterdam is attempting to legally restrict new unhealthy food outlets, especially near schools, by testing the boundaries of current environmental laws in court. The city hopes this pilot case will either empower local authorities to act now or provide the necessary evidence to pressure the national government into finalizing a new Food Act.