rssMar 18, 2026, 14:06

Amsterdam lead candidates head to the polls: "I have a parent-teacher meeting at my child's school in a bit"

Political party leaders in Amsterdam, including Mayor Femke Halsema, cast their ballots at various polling stations across the city during the local elections. By early afternoon, voter turnout was reported at 16.4% as candidates balanced their civic duties with personal commitments while awaiting the final results. The leaders shared their voting experiences at locations ranging from former workplaces to local nightclubs, reflecting a mix of nerves and local pride.

Politics Amsterdam Netherlands

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

Van Weel now understands Halsema not intervening with Hamas banners: Should have called her instead

Minister Van Weel has retracted his criticism of Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema regarding her decision not to intervene during a protest featuring Hamas symbols. After consulting with the mayor, Van Weel acknowledged that no legal basis existed for her to act, though the government is now pursuing legislation to address such incidents in the future.

GroenLinks-PvdA leader Klaver again calls for negotiations with the left: ‘Cabinet is sleepwalking into a crisis’

Progressief Nederland leader Jesse Klaver is calling for urgent negotiations with the Jetten cabinet to secure a majority for the upcoming budget and tax plans before the November 12 vote. Klaver warns that the government risks a crisis by ignoring left-wing parties in favor of seeking right-wing support.

Pro-Palestinian protester convicted of group insult, but receives no punishment

A pro-Palestinian protester was convicted of defaming Jewish people for making Holocaust-related remarks during an April demonstration. Although the court also found him guilty of insulting police officers, he received no fine or immediate punishment due to the personal consequences he has already faced from media attention.

Private landlords are renting out fewer properties in the city: "A problem for students"

Private rental properties in Amsterdam have decreased by 18 percent in three years as landlords sell their units due to new rent control laws and increased taxation. While this shift favors buyers, it creates a significant housing crisis for students and individuals who cannot afford to purchase property in the city.

Seizure of 'Antifa server' at US request leads to questions and concerns

Dutch authorities have seized a server belonging to the Italian hosting provider Autistici/Inventati at the request of the United States. The U.S. government classifies the company as a terrorist entity, sparking concerns among Dutch digital rights groups and industry associations regarding the precedent for such cross-border legal actions.