More than 30 arrested in the Dutch capital after riots broke out over immigration
The city of The Hague witnessed a violent anti-immigration protest on Saturday, leaving widespread destruction in its wake, with a police car set on fire, offices of a political party vandalized, and dozens arrested. More than 1,500 demonstrators gathered in the Dutch capital, and clashes erupted with the police, who used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds. The events resulted in at least 11 injuries, including police officers and journalists.
The protest was organized by a right-wing activist known online as Els Reichs, who demanded stricter immigration policies. The demonstrators smashed the offices of the center-left party "D66" and blocked parts of the A12 highway before heading towards the parliament building. The police later revealed that officers were "one millimeter away" from using their weapons, feeling a significant threat as they were subjected to a barrage of fireworks, stones, and bottles.
Dutch politicians from various parties condemned the acts of violence. D66 party leader Rob Jetten stated that protesters should "stay away from political parties," emphasizing that extremists will not succeed in intimidating democratic institutions. Even far-right leader Geert Wilders, despite his hardline positions on immigration issues, described the rioters as "fools," asserting that violence against the police is "absolutely unacceptable." The Minister of Justice also warned that protesting is a legitimate right, but violence will not be tolerated.
These disturbances come as the Netherlands heads towards elections on October 29, after Wilders withdrew his party, the "Party for Freedom (PVV)", from the ruling coalition earlier this year due to disagreements over immigration issues. Wilders has called for tightening asylum procedures, including freezing applications and expanding deportations. Immigration remains one of the most divisive issues in Dutch politics, with voters split between supporters and opponents of receiving an increasing number of asylum seekers amid a housing crisis.
On Saturday, protesters raised Dutch flags and symbols associated with far-right groups, demanding not only stricter asylum policies but also affordable housing. The long waiting times for processing asylum applications have intensified anger, as some families wait years for reunification, while thousands are held in temporary reception centers. With rising political tensions and street anger, immigration is expected to dominate the upcoming election campaign.