Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema has announced that additional security measures will be introduced where necessary during WorldPride Amsterdam 2026 following Saturday’s attack in Berlin. The city’s security authorities, including the police, Public Prosecution Service and municipality, are in close contact with the event organisers.
Halsema described the attack as “terrible news”. “An attack on the freedom we celebrate so proudly in Amsterdam this week also affects us deeply,” she said. “I understand that it may cause fear and concern among visitors and participants at Pride.”
The mayor said the security situation is being closely monitored. She hopes visitors will notice as little as possible of any additional measures. “We also do not want fear to take over. Everyone should be able to celebrate the freedom to be who they are and love who they want.”
During the Pride event in Berlin on Saturday, a person drove a van into a crowd before stabbing several people. One person was killed and 16 others were injured.
Queen Máxima officially opened WorldPride 2026 on Saturday in Amsterdam’s Vondelpark. The international event highlights the visibility, emancipation and human rights of the LGBTQ+ community and runs until 8 August.
@anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
