rssMay 21, 2026, 11:32

Amsterdam homeowners to lose right to social housing starting in 2027

Starting in 2027, the city of Amsterdam will implement new regulations that deny homeowners access to social rental housing to prioritize those in greater financial need. Amsterdam is the first municipality in the Netherlands to legally formalize this restriction, which includes exceptions for specific situations like divorce or inheritance. The measure is part of a broader effort to address the housing shortage and ensure the availability of affordable homes by 2040.

Politics Economy Amsterdam Netherlands

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Gert had been director of his family business for years, then he was done: 'There had to be more in the world'

After decades as the director of his family business, 58-year-old Gert decided to resign to travel and explore new experiences. He shared his story of taking on various side jobs in the Netherlands to find personal growth and meaning outside of his corporate career.

Smell of burning plastic in parts of city center due to waste fire in Westpoort

A large fire broke out at a waste processing facility in the Westpoort area of Amsterdam, resulting in a strong smell of burning plastic across several parts of the city. Authorities have advised residents affected by the smoke to close windows and doors and to turn off mechanical ventilation systems.

Police believe missing crew member of sunken tugboat in harbor has died

Emergency services have shifted from a rescue to a recovery operation after a push boat sank in Amsterdam's Coenhaven, with the missing crew member presumed deceased. Authorities, including the labor inspectorate, have launched an investigation into the cause of the incident.

Belgium bans imports from Israeli settlements

Belgium has announced an import ban on products originating from Israeli-occupied territories. The country took this unilateral action after the European Commission failed to implement a unified European-wide ban last week.

Girl's dog bite 'her own fault', but judge disagrees: 3000 euros in damages

A judge in the Netherlands has ruled that a dog owner is liable for damages after his dog bit an 11-year-old girl in Diemen in 2022. The owner must pay 3,000 euros in compensation after the court rejected his claim that the victim was at fault for the incident.