haarlemsdagbladMar 19, 2026, 07:33

Haarlem residents Alain and Karin hesitated about their trip to Cuba but went anyway: ‘We are helping the Cubans, because every peso counts’

Alain and Karin Timmers from Haarlem decided to proceed with their trip to Cuba despite the country's worsening economic crisis and fuel shortages. They believe their visit supports the local population as tourism has significantly declined due to international sanctions and logistical issues. Alain Timmers is a well-known Haarlem resident recognized for organizing local community projects and events.

Economy Lifestyle Haarlem Netherlands World

Read original ↗

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

Number of children in welfare families in Haarlem increases for the first time since 2021

The number of children living in families dependent on social assistance in Haarlem increased to 2,220 last year, marking the first rise since 2021. Research highlights that these children face a significantly higher risk of experiencing long-term unemployment and financial instability in their adult lives.

Long wait times at Schiphol due to electronic passport control failure

Schiphol Airport is facing significant passenger delays after a technical failure incapacitated its automated eGate passport control system on Sunday morning. Royal Netherlands Marechaussee officers are currently conducting manual checks as they investigate the cause of the malfunction, which is not believed to be a cyberattack.

ETIAS travel authorization not yet mandatory, but fake websites are already offering them

Authorities warn that over 150 fraudulent websites are currently offering fake ETIAS travel authorizations, despite the official system not yet being active. Travelers are advised that when the program launches in 2027, they should only use the designated official European Union website to avoid financial scams and data theft.

Westeinder campsite residents back in court: 'compensation too low'

Residents of Camping De Westeinder have returned to court in Haarlem to challenge the inadequate compensation offered by developer Kleen Estate for their forced relocation. Many residents rely on the park for permanent housing due to the local housing crisis and argue that the current offers are insufficient to cover relocation costs or provide alternative shelter.

Many students attend Pink Breakfast in Haarlem, but: "Purple Friday is under pressure"

On Purple Friday, students wore purple to support the LGBTI+ community, with a well-attended Pink Breakfast held at the Haarlem city hall. However, recent data shows a notable decrease in the acceptance of homosexuality among young people, and school organizers report that the day is facing increased pressure and scheduling difficulties.