News

The municipality of Den Bosch has proposed a ban on daytime carnival events and restricted alcohol sales on the Thursday before Carnival to combat overcrowding. While city officials and police argue that the recent influx of 42,000 visitors compromises public safety, local hospitality associations have condemned the measures as disproportionate. The municipal council will now review the contested plan, which forces bars to remain closed until 18:00.

The Dutch government has announced plans to ban children under the age of 16 from working as commercial social media influencers and appearing in sponsored family vlogs. Minister Thierry Aartsen warned that treating children as digital business models poses severe risks to their privacy, psychological development, and overall well-being. New, simplified legislation will be presented this autumn to rectify current regulatory loopholes that make child labour laws difficult to enforce online.

Nearly half of Dutch municipalities are allowing hospitality venues to stay open later during World Cup matches involving the national team. The move responds to late kick-off times caused by the time difference with North America. Not all municipalities have adopted the same approach, and it remains unclear if the rules extend to other matches.

Food waste in the Netherlands has declined sharply, with households throwing away far less than a decade ago. While progress is clear, experts warn more effort is needed to meet the 2030 target. The figures also highlight both environmental and financial benefits of wasting less food.

Inflation in the Netherlands climbed further in May, driven by higher flight costs, holiday demand, and rising energy prices. The increase keeps Dutch inflation above the eurozone average. Economists warn that ongoing geopolitical tensions could push prices up further.

Major retail organisations are leaving VNO-NCW because of sharply higher membership fees. CBL has already ended its membership, and others are reconsidering their position as wage costs and inflation rise. The sector says it must weigh the value of affiliation against the growing financial burden.

Kifid has ruled that banks do not have to compensate victims who transfer money to fraudsters themselves during helpdesk scams. The institute says the crucial question is whether a payment is authorised or unauthorised. Only unauthorised payments normally lead to reimbursement, unless the consumer acted with serious negligence.

Nearly 4,000 registered participants have cancelled their entry for this year’s Nijmegen Four Days Marches, leaving more than 11,000 people still on the waiting list. Interest in the event continues to exceed capacity, the organisation says. The Vierdaagse will take place from 21 to 24 July, with over 45,000 walkers expected.