Alderman Marjolein Steffens-van de Water is stepping down from her role in the Haarlemmermeer municipality after 26 years in local politics. Following the passing of her husband, she decided to prioritize her personal life over the intensive demands of her career. She will officially leave her position once a successor has been appointed.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Following the popularity of birth doulas, a new wave of end-of-life and grief doulas is emerging to provide support during the dying process and bereavement. Three doulas explain their specialized roles in helping individuals and families navigate the final stages of life, addressing a cultural discomfort with death.