Politics

The Scientific Council for Government Policy (WRR) warns that Europe must overhaul its trade and innovation policies as major powers increasingly use economic leverage as geopolitical pressure. Without decisive action, the EU risks losing industrial capacity, deepening dependency, and compromising values such as privacy and environmental protection.

NS is urging travelers to take their waste with them as a nationwide cleaners’ strike reduces train cleaning capacity. About 30 percent of staff are participating in the two‑day action, organized by FNV over proposed sick‑pay cuts. Cleaners also held a protest at NS headquarters in Utrecht.

Dutch household purchasing power is set to contract by 0.3% in 2027 as planned income tax increases take effect, according to new forecasts from the Netherlands Bureau for Economic Policy Analysis (CPB). While 2026 will offer brief respite with a modest 0.6% gain as pay growth outpaces inflation, almost all demographics face a squeeze by 2027, with childless families hit hardest. Pensioners remain the main exception due to recent pension indexation reforms, while expanded housing benefit eligibility will help keep national poverty levels broadly stable at around 460,000 to 470,000 people.

Dutch households are increasingly shifting away from fixed energy contracts, opting instead for variable and dynamic options as wholesale market volatility continues.

Police cleared dozens of Extinction Rebellion activists from a major highway in The Hague on Saturday afternoon following a protest over government climate policy. A total of 45 people were arrested during the demonstration, with one man remaining in custody after allegedly biting an officer. Traffic was able to resume shortly after officers removed the protesters from the roadway.

Fuel prices in the Netherlands have dropped this week, with petrol and diesel becoming several cents cheaper. The decline follows renewed optimism about the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, easing pressure on global oil markets.

Farmers across several regions are challenging the cabinet’s nitrogen plans, saying the measures put their permits at risk. Demonstrations took place near major bridges, with organisers emphasising a public-friendly approach. More actions are planned, including a nationwide protest day in August.

Amsterdam will introduce additional security measures where needed during WorldPride after the deadly attack in Berlin. Mayor Femke Halsema said the city will remain vigilant while ensuring visitors can celebrate safely and freely.