News

Protesters demonstrated outside the Senate in The Hague, urging senators to vote against proposed asylum laws. They cited criticism from official bodies and warned that the measures would be ineffective and inhumane. The chair of VluchtelingenWerk Nederland said asylum policy has become increasingly politicised.

The Party for the Animals says it was caught off guard by reports that it has been sidelined in The Hague’s minority coalition. Other coalition parties say trust has broken down over disagreements on relocating waste companies. The move comes amid parallel talks to form a new city coalition after recent elections.

Dutch student cities could ease housing shortages by relaxing rules on shared housing, according to the National Student Union. After reviewing policies in fifteen municipalities, the union says simpler rules and fewer permits could allow more student rooms to be added. The recommendations come as several cities form new local coalitions.

The Dutch railway company NS has started rolling out bodycams for its chief conductors, following trials that showed the devices help prevent escalation. About 3,500 staff members are expected to use them by the end of this year, with footage available for evidence if incidents occur. The move is backed by the government as part of wider efforts to improve safety on public transport.

Three suspects have been released after a stabbing in Noardburgum, though they remain part of the investigation. Police arrested eight people after a fight that left a minor injured. Tension in the village rose over the weekend, with vandalism reported at a nearby home.

The NVWA is warning consumers about five libido‑enhancing products that contain undeclared pharmaceutical substances. The authority says the products can cause serious side effects and may be dangerous for people who use heart medication. It urges anyone with symptoms to seek medical advice and avoid the products.

Environmental groups say the cabinet’s energy package does little to cut fossil fuel dependence. They welcome support for households but argue that stronger action on insulation, electric mobility, and everyday energy-saving habits is needed. Their message is that the energy transition demands more ambition from politicians.

The housing minister wants to relax the Tenancy Act so landlords can charge higher rents for certain homes. She argues that the changes will help increase the supply of mid‑market rentals. The proposal also extends higher‑rent rules for new builds and responds to a rise in investors selling rental properties.