paroolFeb 20, 2026, 02:00

Political cooperation between Muslim and Jew leads to widely supported dialogue plan: ‘Investing in peacetime’

Amsterdam city councilors Sheher Khan and Itay Garmy, a Muslim and a Jew from opposing political parties, have received unanimous support for their "Bekend maakt bemind 2.0" plan to foster structural inter-community dialogue in Amsterdam. The initiative provides city districts with dedicated funding and tools to facilitate conversations during "peacetime" to strengthen social cohesion before future conflicts arise. The proposal aims to move beyond ad-hoc meetings toward a permanent municipal framework that helps citizens navigate polarizing topics like migration, climate, and international conflict.

Politics Culture Amsterdam Netherlands

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

Amsterdammer Coos Huijsen (87), first openly gay MP, dies

Coos Huijsen, the first openly gay member of the Dutch parliament, has died at the age of 87. He is remembered for his advocacy work regarding Article 1 of the Constitution and his lifelong commitment to LGBTQ+ emancipation.

Amsterdam invests 2.5 million euros in five community centers, H-buurt to get large meeting place with music studio

Amsterdam is investing 2.5 million euros to open and renovate five community centers to combat social isolation and improve neighborhood stability. The initiative includes a major new facility in the H-buurt and upgrades to existing spaces across various city districts to support residents facing poverty and other challenges.

No new snack bars near schools? Amsterdam looks for legal ways to limit unhealthy food options

Amsterdam is attempting to legally restrict new unhealthy food outlets, especially near schools, by testing the boundaries of current environmental laws in court. The city hopes this pilot case will either empower local authorities to act now or provide the necessary evidence to pressure the national government into finalizing a new Food Act.

Municipality to open its own healthy restaurant to combat excess of fast food outlets

The Amsterdam municipal government plans to open and then deny a permit for its own unhealthy restaurant to test legal limits regarding health-based zoning. By taking the matter to court, officials aim to establish a precedent that would allow the city to restrict new fast-food establishments in the future.

Artis pleased with new zoo regulations: "Easier and faster to improve animal welfare"

The Dutch government is planning to overhaul zoo regulations to reduce bureaucratic red tape and improve animal welfare standards. The Artis zoo in Amsterdam welcomes the change, noting that simplified permit processes will allow them to modernize habitats more efficiently.