rssSep 21, 2026, 15:10

Dutch Safety Board sounds alarm: refugee children in emergency shelters living in unsafe conditions

The Dutch Safety Board (OVV) has issued a critical report stating that children in emergency asylum shelters are facing unsafe living conditions that threaten their development. The report calls on the government to improve safety standards within six months, noting that issues like lack of privacy, poor hygiene, and limited access to medical care are widespread. Amsterdam's local officials have expressed shock at these findings and are coordinating with the COA to address the situation.

Politics Health Amsterdam Netherlands World

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Young and old joined climate march: "Urgency is high after a summer of disasters"

Over 40,000 people marched through the streets of Amsterdam to demand a reduction in fossil fuel usage. Participants of all ages gathered to urge the Dutch government to take more significant climate action, citing the urgency of recent climate-related disasters.

Province destroys fewer yellow-legged hornet nests, beekeeper fears consequences

The province of North Holland has changed its policy to only remove yellow-legged hornet nests considered a direct danger to the public or nature. Beekeepers and experts fear this approach will lead to an uncontrollable increase in the hornet population, warning of risks to both human safety and biodiversity.

Vaccination rate in Amsterdam stable, but concerns remain for babies and young children

The vaccination rate among school-aged children and youth in Amsterdam remains stable, though it continues to decline among infants and young children. City official Alexander Scholtes noted that overall rates remain below World Health Organization safety standards, prompting the GGD to implement targeted outreach to address parental concerns and mistrust.

Abused monastery children denied compensation for forced labor on appeal

The Amsterdam Court of Appeal has rejected a request for compensation from a group of women who alleged they were subjected to forced labor in convents of the Good Shepherd sisters between 1951 and 1979. The court ruled that the statute of limitations for the case has expired, upholding a previous decision that the claims could not be pursued due to the long delay.

From Dam to Dom: fast cycle route from Amsterdam to Utrecht getting closer

Local authorities have reached an agreement to construct a high-speed bicycle route connecting Amsterdam and Utrecht. The project, which involves infrastructure upgrades like new bridges and tunnels, is estimated to cost 57 million euros and is scheduled to begin in 2028.