Health
MMC Veldhoven opens new maternity care centre
Máxima MC and Kraamzorg VDA are launching a new maternity centre to support the rapidly growing number of families in the Brainport region. The facility will offer eight private, homely rooms where new parents can receive professional guidance before transitioning back to their own homes.
Health
Emergency services hit by nationwide system disruption
A technical fault in the national control room system is causing delays for emergency callers across the Netherlands. While the 112 emergency line remains operational, officials warn that it may take longer to reach an operator. Backup systems are being used to dispatch help while technicians work to resolve the disruption.
Health
D66 nominates Rianne Letschert and Hans Vijlbrief as ministers
D66 nominates Rianne Letschert and Hans Vijlbrief for key ministerial posts, with further cabinet roles to be announced later.
Health
European Commission finds TikTok design violates EU digital rules
European regulators have ruled that TikTok's core features are designed to be intentionally addictive, breaching EU digital laws. The Commission warns that the app's "infinite scroll" and reward systems pose risks to the mental health of minors and vulnerable users. TikTok now faces potential multi-billion-euro fines unless it overhauls its platform design.
Culture
Eindhoven political factions demand more ladies’ toilets for carnival
Political parties in Eindhoven are pushing for more public toilets after women faced 30-minute waits during last year's carnival. The proposal includes free facilities, accessible options for disabled visitors, and gender-neutral toilets for major city events. As the festival kicks off next Friday, councillors hope to avoid the long queues seen in previous years.
Health
Cervical cancer screening delayed following laboratory cyber attack
A cyber attack on a major laboratory has forced Population Survey Netherlands to delay cervical cancer screening invitations. With processing capacity under pressure, women are currently facing longer waiting times for their regular tests. The organisation warns that these delays will continue to grow until full laboratory capacity is restored.
Health
Lenny Kuhr: Eurovision to politics
The Dutch singer Lenny Kuhr announced her retirement from the music industry on Instagram this Wednesday. In a heartfelt message, the artist explained that...
Health
Dutch mortgage applications plunge in January 2026
Dutch mortgage applications dropped sharply in January, with homebuyer requests down over a quarter from last year. HDN data reveals a slowdown after 2025's rate-driven peak, amid persistent housing shortages. Stable but slightly lower average home values signal a cautious market start.
