rssMay 13, 2026, 05:04

Lessons for the new board: "Don't let people get stuck in bureaucracy"

As Amsterdam prepares for a new city administration, residents and advocacy groups are urging the government to prioritize the human element over rigid bureaucracy. Critics point to the difficulties citizens face when navigating complex municipal systems for healthcare, housing, and legal issues, calling for more flexible policies that utilize community insights.

Politics Lifestyle Health Amsterdam Netherlands

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

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.

VVD wants smoke- and vape-free zones around schools

The Amsterdam VVD has proposed a ban on smoking and vaping within 50 meters of schools to combat rising youth nicotine addiction. The plan also includes stricter enforcement against illegal flavored vapes and the creation of improved cessation support services for students.

UMC: increasingly unhealthy food supply in cities, Amsterdam also scores poorly: 'Hurry up with Food Law'

A study by the UMC across ten Dutch cities shows that urban food environments have become increasingly unhealthy over the last decade. Local officials are now calling for a new national Food Act to grant municipalities the legal power to regulate unhealthy food vendors, especially near schools.

NH gets an exclusive look: this is what Amsterdam Marathon top runners eat for breakfast

Elite athletes participating in the Amsterdam Marathon prioritize simple, familiar meals in the days leading up to the race to avoid digestive distress. Whether opting for plain bread with honey or traditional African staples like beans and eggs, competitors focus on consistency rather than dietary experimentation.