rssMar 11, 2026, 08:19

Fears of increased drug nuisance following closure of Mainline Foundation

Stichting Mainline is closing down after the Dutch government withdrew its national funding, ending years of harm reduction work and health research for drug users. Experts warn that the loss of these services, which support aid organizations in Amsterdam and across the Netherlands, could lead to increased public nuisance and poorer health outcomes for addicts. While the city of Amsterdam increased its local subsidy, the amount is insufficient to maintain the organization's nationwide operations.

Politics Health Amsterdam Netherlands

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

Support for chemsex issues collapses after closure of Stichting Mainline

The closure of Stichting Mainline has severely limited accessible support services for individuals in Amsterdam facing problems related to chemsex. Healthcare providers are now sounding the alarm, warning that the loss of this specialized care leaves a vulnerable group without adequate prevention and assistance.

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.

Municipality to open its own healthy restaurant to combat excess of fast food outlets

The Amsterdam municipal government plans to open and then deny a permit for its own unhealthy restaurant to test legal limits regarding health-based zoning. By taking the matter to court, officials aim to establish a precedent that would allow the city to restrict new fast-food establishments in the future.

End to intake freeze at Levvel, youths with severe issues can once again be admitted in Amsterdam

Care organization Levvel has ended its intake freeze for Amsterdam youth following successful negotiations to secure more beds for those in need of severe residential care. While access has been restored, the municipality is demanding better coordination among providers and has initiated an independent financial audit of Levvel to ensure future stability.

Emergency asylum shelter on cruise ship MS Galaxy in Western Port Area extended following minister's request

Amsterdam has extended the emergency asylum shelter contract for the MS Galaxy cruise ship following a request from the Minister of Asylum and Migration. The decision was made to alleviate pressure caused by critical capacity shortages at the Ter Apel registration center, despite ongoing concerns regarding the poor living conditions on board.