haarlemsdagbladMar 10, 2026, 17:01

BBB switches to Meloni’s more right-wing group in European Parliament

The Dutch party BBB is moving its affiliation in the European Parliament from the center-right EPP to the more right-wing European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group. This group includes Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's party, Fratelli d’Italia, moving BBB away from the largest bloc associated with Ursula von der Leyen.

Politics Netherlands World

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

New asylum forecasts: slightly fewer asylum seekers, but more housing still needed

While the Netherlands expects a slight decrease in asylum seekers, the demand for reception capacity has risen to 96,000 beds due to a lack of housing for status holders and continued high numbers of Ukrainian refugees. The government also anticipates a spike in legal proceedings as officials move to lower the overall rate of approved asylum applications.

Phasing out fossil fuels is a priority for the Netherlands at climate summit

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Fear of wolves grips Drenthe: I fear for my children and for myself

Mayors in Drenthe have issued an urgent plea to the Dutch government to manage the growing wolf population, citing increased fear among residents and safety concerns in residential areas. The officials propose limiting wolves to specific nature reserves and implementing active management, including potential culling, to protect citizens and their communities.

When is a police officer allowed to use a taser?

Recent footage of a police officer using a Taser on a delivery driver in Amsterdam has drawn attention to the specific legal conditions under which Dutch law enforcement may deploy conducted energy weapons. These devices are permitted only in strictly defined circumstances, such as preventing violence, addressing immediate danger, or overcoming physical resistance during an arrest.

Lawyer for Overasselt attack target withdraws from case

Jan G. from Overasselt faces legal turmoil following an underworld attack on his home that killed a security guard and led to his own arrest for drug trafficking. His defense attorney, Ralph Takens, has now stepped down from the case while Jan G. remains detained in a high-security facility.