haarlemsdagbladApr 2, 2026, 11:01

Majority of parties in Velsen refuse to govern with FVD: 'Remarks about "indigenous Velseners" living here for three generations did not help'

A majority of political parties in Velsen have ruled out forming a coalition with Forum voor Democratie (FVD) following a local debate on Wednesday. The parties cited a lack of trust and significant policy differences, including controversial remarks regarding the definition of local residents, as reasons for the exclusion.

Politics Netherlands

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

Cabinet invests 450 million euros in rainforest protection fund

The Dutch government has pledged 450 million euros to the Tropical Forests Forever Facility, a global initiative led by Brazil to protect rainforests through investment-based returns. The contribution aims to help reach the 10 billion dollar threshold necessary to trigger further funding from Norway, though the Netherlands is still working to finalize the details of its commitment.

Many cabinets have tried, will cutting the number of civil servants finally succeed this time?

The Dutch government is attempting to reduce the number of civil servants after numerous failed attempts by previous cabinets. Success likely depends on the government's ability to clearly define which public services to maintain and which to eliminate.

State secretary intervenes at Haga Lyceum: Unacceptable for students to receive substandard education

State Secretary Tielen has intervened at the Amsterdam-based Haga Lyceum due to recurring mismanagement and substandard educational quality. The ministry has demanded a formal improvement plan and increased accountability, warning that failure to comply could lead to the cessation of school funding.

Guy flies back to Israel to vote against Netanyahu, like tens of thousands of others

Tens of thousands of Israelis are flying back to their home country to vote in parliamentary elections, as expatriate voting is not permitted. Many, including Amsterdam-based resident Guy Spigelman, are traveling specifically to vote against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu due to concerns over his leadership and policies.

Cabinet to cut civil service: 25,000 fewer full-time jobs by 2035

The Dutch cabinet plans to reduce the national civil service by 25,000 full-time positions by 2035. State Secretary Eric van der Burg also announced that funding for various advisory bodies will be significantly cut as part of this downsizing effort.