adSep 14, 2026, 09:30

What it’s like to be a designated survivor minister: I watched the Speech from the Throne on TV, with some nuts

Every year, the Dutch Council of Ministers designates one minister to stay away from the King's Speech to ensure government continuity in the event of an emergency. It has been revealed that for years, these designated survivors have been secretly violating the established protocols regarding their activities during the event.

Politics Netherlands

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

Grumpy cabinet now considering a Godfather offer

The Dutch cabinet is struggling to reach an agreement on its tax plans due to ongoing tensions and rejected proposals from the right-wing opposition. In response, officials are now considering presenting a consolidated tax package to the entire opposition as a non-negotiable ultimatum.

Journalist Sarah Haaij (41) sees an Amsterdam full of exploitation: 'Even my leftist friends don't know if their cleaner has a passport'

Journalist Sarah Haaij has published a book investigating the prevalence of labor exploitation among migrant workers in Amsterdam. Through interviews with both victims and perpetrators, she reveals that these issues are deeply rooted in the city and often go ignored by the general public.

House of Representatives wants ban on AI programs like ChatGPT, Gemini and Claude in primary schools: ‘Learn to think critically first’

A majority in the Dutch House of Representatives supports a ban on using generative AI tools like ChatGPT in primary schools to protect fundamental education. Lawmakers argue that children must master basic reading, writing, and math skills independently before incorporating AI technology into their learning.

Top cabinet meets: frustration over offer from right-wing trio

The Dutch cabinet is deadlocked after a coalition of right-wing opposition parties submitted a list of demanding conditions in exchange for supporting the government's tax plans. Ministers are expressing frustration over the proposal, which includes controversial requirements regarding asylum policy, abortion rights, and nitrogen regulations.

City will not appeal against new and broader Schiphol rules, alderman wants enforcement

The municipality of Amsterdam will not legally challenge the new national regulations for Schiphol Airport, despite concerns that the rules may increase noise pollution. Councilor Sofyan Mbarki argues that the updated framework provides necessary mechanisms for regulatory enforcement, even though the city acknowledges the rules do not fully align with its local sustainability goals.