rssFeb 23, 2026, 13:34

Coffee with William Clairbois (Party for Development): "We started as cavemen"

William Clairbois, the leader of the Partij voor Ontwikkeling, is seeking a seat in the Amsterdam city council with a platform focused on human progress and self-development. His party proposes policies such as 24/7 business hours and residential living above shops to foster a more dynamic urban environment. The candidate aims to provide the necessary conditions for citizens to focus on growth ahead of the upcoming elections.

Politics Lifestyle Amsterdam Netherlands

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

Minister now understands why Halsema did not intervene against Hamas banners: "No other option"

Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema and Justice Minister David van Weel have reconciled after the Minister acknowledged that current laws prevented the Mayor from stopping pro-Hamas banners at an October 7 demonstration. Halsema noted that while the slogans were offensive, she acted within the boundaries of the law and called on the government to resolve long-standing legislative inaction regarding the glorification of terrorism.

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.

Minister seeks talks with Halsema: I see an escalation in demonstrations

Justice Minister David van Weel plans to consult with Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema regarding the escalation of protests that feature support for Hamas. While authorities confirm the controversial slogans are not legally punishable, the minister remains concerned about the intimidating nature of recent demonstrations.

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.