The use of crack cocaine has become increasingly visible in public spaces throughout Amsterdam, leading to concerns among residents and professionals. While experts debate the exact increase in users, they identify factors like social issues and the lack of effective medical treatment for addiction as key drivers of the situation, prompting local officials to request further research into potential medications.
Residents of 21 homes in Amsterdam's Slotermeer district confronted landlord Eigen Haard regarding long-term mold issues, some of which reportedly date back to 1999. The housing association has committed to providing a remediation plan by the end of the year and addressing immediate health-related maintenance needs.
The mayors of Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam, and The Hague have sent a letter to the Dutch government requesting permission to conduct research into a medication for crack addiction. They argue that additional funding for social services and mental healthcare is urgently needed to address the growing crisis of homelessness and drug addiction in major cities across the Netherlands.
The Dutch mental health association (GGZ) is calling for a reform in funding to better assist homeless individuals struggling with addiction. This follows criticism from Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema, who argued that current healthcare systems prioritize patients with higher chances of success, leading to inadequate support for those with complex mental health needs.
Amsterdam is raising its tourist tax to 20 percent by 2031 to address overcrowding in the city center. Residents of Weesp, which is part of the Amsterdam municipality, are advocating for tailored tax rates, arguing that their quiet rural area is not comparable to the busy city center.
The municipal budget for Amsterdam has been released, prompting concerns among the opposition regarding the city's ability to fund major future investments as financial resources tighten. The podcast Politiek aan de Amstel discusses these budgetary constraints alongside local political developments, including housing enforcement policies and conduct at city meetings.
We would like to use Google Analytics cookies to see how the site is used. They are optional — decline and no cookies are set. Privacy Policy