More than 40,000 demonstrators filled Dam Square in Amsterdam on Saturday to join a 2.5-kilometre climate march to Museumplein. The Climate Crisis Coalition—an alliance of environmental and civic groups—organized the event to demand an immediate end to fossil fuel subsidies. Protesters carried banners highlighting recent record-breaking summer heatwaves, while others targeted data centre water usage and called on Prime Minister Rob Jetten to deliver on his green promises.
Lawmakers push cabinet to act after extreme summer weather
Opposition MPs joined the march to criticize the government’s sluggish response following a summer of extreme heat and wildfires. Party for the Animals MP Christine Teunissen voiced disappointment with Jetten’s cabinet, arguing that actual policy lags far behind past promises. Representatives from PRO and Volt echoed her concerns, calling the extreme summer weather a crucial wake-up call that requires immediate policy shifts rather than delayed promises.
Climate Minister defends progress and long-term vision
Climate Minister Stientje van Veldhoven defended the cabinet’s record, insisting that her ministry has already accelerated the green transition. She highlighted new offshore wind farm projects and proposed laws requiring energy suppliers to deliver more green gas. Accepting an ‘action call’ from the Youth Climate Movement, Van Veldhoven stressed that sound climate policy relies on long-term structural decisions for 2035 and 2040 rather than quick fixes.
Broad public support continues despite lower turnout
Participation fell short of the record 85,000 demonstrators who joined the 2023 Amsterdam march, which featured Swedish activist Greta Thunberg. However, Saturday’s turnout matched last year’s demonstration in The Hague, which drew roughly 45,000 people. Prominent figures, including actress Carice van Houten, marched alongside themed blocks of youth and nature advocates, reinforcing broad societal demand for real climate progress.
@ anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
