haarlemsdagbladMar 27, 2026, 08:52

Dutch Safety Board: bridge operator must reduce risk, no investigation needed

The Dutch Safety Board (OVV) has concluded that bridge and lock managers must prioritize public safety by strictly adhering to existing risk-reduction guidelines. The board stated that additional investigations are unnecessary, emphasizing that the focus should be on implementing current safety protocols to prevent potential accidents.

Politics Netherlands World

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

Brussels warns of uninsurable climate damage, EU law in the making

The European Commission is drafting new legislation to address the increasing economic and human costs of climate change, including clearer legal responsibilities and better insurance protocols. Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra highlighted the need for more climate-resilient construction and public risk-monitoring tools to combat damages that reached 113 billion euros during recent heatwaves.

Cabinet invests 450 million euros in rainforest protection fund

The Dutch government has pledged 450 million euros to the Tropical Forests Forever Facility, a global initiative led by Brazil to protect rainforests through investment-based returns. The contribution aims to help reach the 10 billion dollar threshold necessary to trigger further funding from Norway, though the Netherlands is still working to finalize the details of its commitment.

Guy flies back to Israel to vote against Netanyahu, like tens of thousands of others

Tens of thousands of Israelis are flying back to their home country to vote in parliamentary elections, as expatriate voting is not permitted. Many, including Amsterdam-based resident Guy Spigelman, are traveling specifically to vote against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu due to concerns over his leadership and policies.

Women's organizations devastated after death of Hajar: "Lived in immense fear"

Following the discovery of 29-year-old Hajar's body in an Amsterdam canal, a 23-year-old suspect has been arrested. Local women's organizations are grieving the loss while addressing the broader societal fears regarding the safety of women.

Espionage scoop could further strain fragile US relations

Recent revelations regarding Dutch espionage activities targeting Jared Kushner have caused significant concern in The Hague. This disclosure threatens to further strain the already delicate diplomatic relationship between the Netherlands and the United States.