Amsterdam moves the anti-immigration demonstration from Dam Square to Museum Square on Sunday
The city of Amsterdam has decided to move the anti-immigration demonstration scheduled for Sunday, titled 'Nederland in opstand' ('Netherlands in Revolt'), from Dam Square to Museumplein. The decision came from Mayor Femke Halsema in cooperation with the police chief and the public prosecutor, under the Public Assemblies Act, due to concerns regarding security and public order.
After consultations with the organizers of the demonstration, the authorities confirmed that the gathering will start and end at the museum square after a march through the city. A security zone will be implemented around the square and along the route of the demonstration from 9 AM to 7 PM on Sunday, where police will be allowed to search participants to prevent any potential disturbances.
Amsterdam hosts more than 3,000 demonstrations annually, with over half of them taking place in Dam Square. These gatherings often lead to disturbances for local residents and shop owners, especially on weekends, when it becomes difficult for the police to manage the large crowds of shoppers and demonstrators at the same time.
Authorities have indicated that Sunday will be busy in the city, as the Dutch national team will play a match at the Johan Cruyff Arena, bringing thousands of fans to the center of Amsterdam. Officials fear that the coincidence of the demonstration with these events may increase the risk of disturbances, especially if counter-demonstrations occur.
Mayor Halsima confirmed that the right to protest remains one of the fundamental rights, but she emphasized the need to maintain public safety. According to the Public Gatherings Act, restrictions can only be imposed in the event of an actual threat to order, safety, or public health, which justified moving the protest to the museum square. This decision comes after a series of anti-immigration protests that witnessed violence in the Netherlands, most notably the riots in The Hague on September 20, which caused damages estimated at around 55,000 euros.