rssJun 5, 2026, 16:00

Health gap for children in Southeast starts before birth: "Alarming result"

A study by Erasmus MC reveals that infants born in Amsterdam Zuidoost face significantly higher health risks, with stillbirth and low birth weight rates double the national average. Researchers emphasize that these disparities are driven by environmental factors such as poor housing and chronic stress rather than individual maternal characteristics. The findings serve as a call to action for broader social interventions to address health inequalities that begin even before birth.

Politics Economy Health Amsterdam Netherlands

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

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.

Vacancy | NU.nl is looking for a social economy and healthcare reporter

NU.nl is hiring a reporter specializing in social economy and healthcare to produce original, investigative stories for its audience. The full-time position requires three years of experience and is based in Amsterdam-Duivendrecht.

No funding for Zuidasdok megaproject in new cabinet plans

The Dutch government has frozen funding for the northern part of the Zuidasdok project to prioritize the maintenance of existing national infrastructure. This decision delays one of the country's largest development projects, sparking concerns in Amsterdam over long-term economic and accessibility impacts.

Labor exploitation is rising, tackling it remains difficult: 'Justice system must lower the bar'

Reports of labor exploitation in the Netherlands increased to 401 in 2025, with significant spikes in the hospitality and agricultural sectors. Experts warn that few cases lead to prosecution due to high legal thresholds, calling for systemic reforms to better protect vulnerable workers from abusive staffing agencies.

Anti-smoking foundation loses final ruling on 'cheating cigarettes'

The Dutch Trade and Industry Appeals Tribunal has ruled against the anti-smoking organization Rookpreventie Jeugd regarding their request to change cigarette testing methods. The court determined that tobacco manufacturers are legally bound to use the established measurement standard, effectively dismissing claims about so-called cheat cigarettes. The foundation expressed disappointment, noting that the ruling avoids addressing the health risks associated with how filters affect smoke intake.