A technical problem with the bridge at the Voornse Sluis in Spijkenisse is currently causing issues for water traffic. Vessels higher than 3.6 meters cannot pass because the bridge cannot open. Repairs are already underway to fix the issue as quickly as possible. Smaller boats under 3.6 meters may still use the lock, but should expect some delays. The water authority is working hard to resolve the situation and asks for patience while they finish the necessary repairs to restore normal traffic flow for all vessels in the area.

The Council of State has released a critical opinion regarding a proposal to cancel the Distribution Act. This law, which started in February 2024, helps municipalities share the responsibility for housing asylum seekers. Its goal is to make sure there is enough space and to stop the constant need for emergency shelters. A group of Members of Parliament wants to get rid of this law. They argue that it ignores the wishes of local citizens and that the real focus should be on reducing the total number of people entering the country. However, the Council of State warns that the Distribution Act is important for meeting legal obligations and keeping the system stable for local governments. The Council concludes that the proposal should not go ahead. They note that the law has not been active for very long. Removing it now would create uncertainty and make it harder for municipalities to do their work effectively.

The Hoogheemraadschap De Stichtse Rijnlanden is responding to a long period of drought and high temperatures. Because the water level of the Rhine is dropping, the water authority is taking extra steps to ensure there is enough water for nature, farmers, and daily use. These measures help keep the water system balanced during this dry time. A major action involves sending more fresh water to the Western Netherlands to stop salt water from entering the area. Officials have increased the supply rate through the Klimaatbestendige Wateraanvoer system. Additionally, they have installed temporary pumps in several locations to maintain water levels in ditches and small watercourses that are currently under pressure. Residents should be aware that these measures affect shipping and water safety. Some routes are closed to boats, and swimming in supply channels is discouraged due to strong currents. There is also a strict ban on taking surface water from ditches near the Utrechtse Heuvelrug.

A recent survey across the European Union shows that most people have a positive view of vocational education and training, often called VET. Many Europeans believe that these practical courses lead to good jobs and fair salaries. People see VET as a fast way to start working and earn money early in their careers. Students and teachers generally value the high quality of these programs, noting that they provide modern equipment and useful technical skills. Many respondents also feel that vocational training offers clear pathways to higher education. This confirms that these courses are an important part of the European job market. However, there is still work to be done. The survey suggests that programs should improve basic skills like reading and digital literacy. Furthermore, many people are concerned about gender stereotypes that limit career choices for women in technical fields.

The European Commission has started a public consultation about the future of European Partnerships for research and innovation. They want to hear from researchers, companies, and all citizens. This feedback will help shape the next major research program for the years 2028 to 2034. It is an important step to ensure EU competitiveness and to help new ideas reach the market. These partnerships bring together different groups, such as governments and private companies, to work on large projects. The goal is to make these partnerships more open and easier to join. By sharing resources and knowledge, the EU hopes to achieve results that are too difficult for any single country or organization to manage on its own. This work supports the growth of new technologies across the entire continent. Anyone interested can share their opinions through the official EU portal until October 16, 2026. You can answer in any of the 24 official EU languages. After the consultation, the Commission will write a report and use the information to prepare new plans for the future of research funding.

Poland is currently implementing a series of updates to its policies regarding migration, education, and labor market integration. A national research institute has released new recommendations to better support migrant children in schools, focusing on psychological care, teacher training, and the use of intercultural assistants to ensure a more inclusive learning environment. Economic and legal shifts are also underway. While over one million migrants are employed in the country, the government is updating its list of shortage occupations to prioritize specific visa applications. Additionally, special financial support for people displaced from Ukraine is being phased out, and the government is introducing specialized training for prosecutors to better address hate crimes and discrimination against migrant populations. Public opinion remains divided, with recent surveys indicating varying levels of support for ongoing assistance programs. These changes reflect a broader effort to balance labor market needs with evolving social policies as the nation adjusts its long-term strategy for managing migration.

The Groenbrigade in the Rotterdam neighborhood of Oud-Mathenesse is working hard to make the streets greener. Volunteers and residents come together every Wednesday to maintain facade gardens and tree pits. This project is part of a larger effort to improve nature and biodiversity in the local area. Beyond planting flowers and removing weeds, the initiative serves as a social meeting place for neighbors. Participants say that working together helps them feel proud of their street. It also offers people the chance to gain skills or recover from difficult times in a supportive and active environment. The effort is part of the 'Wijk in Bloei' program. This project is supported by the European Urban Initiative, which helps cities become more climate-resilient. Several local organizations and universities are involved in this ongoing green mission.

In May 2026, the volume of goods exports from the Netherlands grew by 5.5 percent compared to the same month last year. This increase was largely driven by a higher demand for petroleum products, machinery, and equipment. Imports also showed positive growth, rising by 5.4 percent, with more chemical products and machinery entering the country. Statistics Netherlands reports that export conditions in July are becoming less difficult than in previous months. This change is mainly because the decline in German industrial production has slowed down. These figures are provisional and show that trade activity remains an important part of the Dutch economy, despite global market challenges and shifting international industrial conditions.

The Province of Flevoland follows national rules for open soil energy systems. These systems use heat and cold from the ground to save energy. If you want to install such a system, you must follow specific requirements. For example, only certified companies can design or build these systems. You can check the Rijkswaterstaat website to find a company with the right qualifications. When applying for a permit, you must include a study that shows how the system affects the area. Smaller systems with a pump capacity of 10 cubic meters per hour or less do not need a permit, but they must be reported. In special zones called interference areas, a permit is always needed. You can apply for your permit through the national OLO portal. The application is usually handled within two months. However, complex cases may take up to six months. You must also follow rules regarding water temperature and groundwater protection. Using the provincial soil atlas helps you check the chloride levels in the local water. Always ensure your project meets these standards to receive approval from the Omgevingsdienst Flevoland Gooi en Vechtstreek.

The official website of the Province of Flevoland is currently showing a page not found error. This means the specific information you were looking for is either removed or the link is incorrect. You can find older information in the online archive or by using the search tool on the website. For further help, please contact the provincial webteam directly.

On July 12, 2026, visitors are invited to explore the historic Abbey in Middelburg. These tours offer a special chance to see the building and learn about its rich cultural heritage. Tours take place throughout the day, starting every 20 minutes. The route includes many parts of the Abbey, such as the Great Crypt, the herb garden, and the office of the King's Commissioner. Tours begin at 10:00 AM and the final tour starts at 4:00 PM. Access to the Statentuin depends on the weather.

The police are investigating a shooting that took place late at night near a local business in Amsterdam. Officers found shell casings at the scene, but no suspects or victims were present. Authorities are now searching for the person who was targeted and looking for more information. Investigators are asking the public for help. If you have camera footage from the area or saw anything unusual on the night of July 12, please contact the police. You can share tips by phone or through the official website to help solve this case.

A shooting occurred at a home on the Van der Duyn van Maasdamstraat in Wassenaar during the night of July 12. Two people were injured and needed hospital treatment. Emergency services, including a medical team, arrived at the scene quickly after the report came in around 3:50 AM. Officers arrested a 42-year-old local man nearby shortly after the incident. Police believe a personal conflict caused the shooting. They are currently investigating the situation and are asking anyone with information or camera footage of the area to contact them to help with the ongoing investigation.

The Amstel, Gooi en Vecht Water Authority is working to improve nature at its sewage treatment plant in Weesp. By changing the grounds from simple lawns into areas with native flowers, ponds, and brushwood hedges, the location now offers a better home for insects and small animals. A key part of this project is a partnership with BeeGrateful. This group has placed beehives at the site to study how local bee populations are growing. The water authority hopes to show that industrial water management sites can also be valuable areas for supporting local wildlife and protecting the environment. Wild bees in the Netherlands are facing serious threats, with many species at risk of disappearing. This project helps provide much-needed habitat for these essential pollinators.

A striking portrait of Anne of Austria is part of the city of Amsterdam's art collection. Anne was the daughter of the Spanish King and became the Queen of France. She was the mother of Louis XIV, famously known as the Sun King. The painting was created in the workshop of the famous artist Peter Paul Rubens. The artwork shows Anne with pearls and expensive clothes to show her high status. However, her life at the French court was often difficult. She faced suspicion because of her Spanish background and was involved in complex political conflicts. For a long time, people thought the painting showed a different royal woman. The banker Adriaan van der Hoop bought the painting in the 19th century. When he passed away, he gave his large art collection to the city of Amsterdam. Today, the painting is recognized as an important portrait of Anne of Austria.

On Saturday afternoon, July 11, 2026, a 22-year-old tourist was robbed at Saskia van Uijlenburgkade in Amsterdam. Three men threatened the victim with a firearm and stole his personal belongings, including a phone, a watch, and a designer bag, before fleeing the scene on two scooters. The police are currently investigating the incident and are searching for the suspects. They are asking witnesses to come forward with information or camera footage. You can contact the police by calling 0900-8844 or leave an anonymous tip via 0800-7000.

Police have arrested a minor from Roermond for an explosion at a home on Deken Rhoenstraat. The incident happened on January 28 and caused a fire. Investigators shared security footage of a man placing a package at the door, which helped them find the suspect. The investigation is ongoing and more arrests could follow. Because the suspect is under age, the police will not provide more details about the case at this time.

On July 10, police found several barrels containing unknown liquids in a storage area in Maastricht. Experts confirmed that these substances are used to make illegal synthetic drugs. The fire department checked the area and decided there was no immediate danger to the people living in the apartment complex. Police have arrested one resident of the building because of this discovery. The investigation is still ongoing. The specialized LFO team was brought in to safely handle the chemicals and clear the site.

The Public Prosecution Service has requested prison sentences of 8 and 10 years for two Ukrainian brothers. They are accused of sexually exploiting five minors in Rotterdam. The victims included four girls and one boy, some as young as 14 years old. According to investigators, the brothers used manipulative tactics, such as the loverboy method, to gain the trust of their victims. They also used the financial vulnerability of the victims, who were refugees, to lure them into prostitution. The investigation revealed that the exploitation started with promises of simple cleaning jobs. Over time, the suspects forced the victims to perform increasingly serious sexual acts, which were filmed without their consent. The suspects also used drugs and intimidation to control the victims. The prosecution describes the actions as a severe violation of the children's integrity. The court will give a final judgment after the summer period.

A man named Kees was banned from local swimming pools for two years after accidentally hitting a student while swimming. He felt the pain caused a reflex movement, but the municipality did not ask for his version of events before issuing the ban. This lack of communication left Kees feeling unfairly judged by his local government. The National Ombudsman investigated the case and decided the municipality acted too quickly. The ruling states that authorities must always talk to people before applying strict rules. The municipality has now promised to follow this advice in the future.

Police in Deventer recently discovered a large amount of chemicals used for drug production. The discovery happened after officers checked a delivery van and found suspicious items inside. This search led them to a warehouse on the Arnhemstraat. During the raid, officials found thousands of liters of chemical substances. Experts were called to help with the investigation at the scene. They also found stolen cars and license plates in the building. One 37-year-old man from Deventer was arrested during the police operation. He is still a suspect in the case. Police are continuing their investigation and may make more arrests soon. Fighting drug crime is a very important goal for the local police and the government. They ask citizens to report anything suspicious to keep their neighborhood safe. The police depend on residents to help them spot illegal activities early.

A serious traffic accident occurred on the Kanaal Zuid in Lieren on July 11, 2026. A car carrying two police officers in civilian clothes collided with a truck. Sadly, one officer passed away, and the other was seriously injured. The police are currently investigating the cause of this tragic event on the local road. Authorities are urgently seeking witnesses to help with the investigation. Specifically, they want to speak to an older man on a bicycle who was near the scene. Anyone with information, photos, or videos related to the accident is encouraged to contact the police or use the online tip form to assist the ongoing investigation.

The Municipality of Utrecht is starting major road works on the Northern Ring Road (NRU) this summer. The project focuses on improving traffic flow and lowering noise levels for local residents by applying quieter asphalt. Furthermore, the city is replacing older lighting with energy-efficient LED lamps and adjusting traffic light systems. These changes are designed to help cyclists and pedestrians cross busy junctions more safely and quickly. The project also includes creating a green wadi at Henri Dunantplein to manage rainwater more effectively. Work will take place in phases to keep traffic moving as much as possible. While some weekend road closures are expected, the city promises clear signs and information for all road users.

The municipality of Tilburg is improving traffic flow around the Professor van Buchemlaan. Since a new youth center opened in 2024, the area has become very busy, causing long wait times for ambulances and hospital visitors. Local officials, the hospital, and the nearby school are now working together to solve these safety issues. Construction starts this autumn and will last about two months. By moving entrances and changing road layouts, the city hopes to make the campus safer and more accessible for everyone.

The Vechtstromen Water Authority reports that groundwater levels are currently normal for the time of year. However, high temperatures are expected in the coming period, which will likely lead to lower water levels. The organization is working hard to keep water in the area by adjusting weirs and managing supplies from the IJssel and IJsselmeer rivers. Dry weather and heat can reduce water quality. This creates risks, such as a lack of oxygen in the water, which is harmful to fish. In some areas, there is a risk of blue-green algae. The water authority asks citizens to be careful and check the website for swimming advice before entering public water. There are strict rules for extracting surface water. For example, some ponds have a ban on water extraction to protect nature. People who want to extract water must follow the official irrigation rules and report extractions that exceed 10 cubic meters per hour.

Heavy-duty transport relies more and more on large charging sites. These locations use complex digital systems to manage energy and reservations. Because these systems are connected, they could be vulnerable to cyberattacks or technical failures. It is important to know how safe this infrastructure is as the network grows across the country. Rijkswaterstaat is currently researching the digital security of these sites. The goal is to learn how different systems work together during problems. These findings will help the transport sector build safer charging stations in the future.

Starting August 3, 2026, Dutch entrepreneurs can apply for the Indirect Cost Compensation ETS (IKC-ETS) subsidy. This scheme helps businesses manage higher electricity prices caused by the European Union Emissions Trading System. A total budget of 318.239 million euros is available to support companies and keep production within the Netherlands. This measure aims to prevent carbon leakage, where companies move abroad due to high costs. By providing this financial help, the government keeps the Dutch industry competitive and supports the transition to sustainable energy. The current round includes more eligible sectors, such as glass and fertilizer producers. Interested businesses can apply until September 30, 2026.

The Parliamentary Inquiry Committee on Corona will resume its public hearings after the summer holiday. Starting on Monday, August 24, 2026, the committee enters its seventh week of investigation. This week focuses specifically on the role that the House of Representatives played during the pandemic. Interested citizens can watch the meetings live through the Debat Direct platform or visit the Inquiry Room in The Hague in person. Registration is required for those who wish to attend the hearings on location. The final report for this inquiry is expected in early 2027.

The police are looking for witnesses after a serious fight on the Laan van Hoornwijck in The Hague. On July 9, a cyclist was attacked by four people, including three men on fatbikes and a car driver. The victim suffered head injuries and had to go to the hospital for medical treatment. Authorities are currently investigating the incident and are asking the public for help. If you have any information, camera footage, or were present during the attack, please contact the police. You can report tips anonymously by phone or through the official police website to assist with the ongoing criminal investigation.

A teenager was arrested after an assault occurred in Zoetermeer on July 10, 2026. The victim was walking between the Stadstuin and the Warande when they were attacked. They required hospital treatment for their injuries following the incident. Police identified the suspect using witness statements and camera images. The young person was released after questioning and will soon face a juvenile judge.

On July 9, a young person was robbed on the Quirinus de Palmelaan in Leerdam. The victim became unconscious during the attack, and the suspects ran away immediately after the incident occurred. The police arrested two minor suspects on July 10. Officers also searched two homes as part of the ongoing investigation.

With summer temperatures rising, many people are looking to cool off in open water. The Vechtstromen Water Authority strongly recommends using only the 46 official swimming locations. These spots are regularly checked to ensure the water is safe for visitors. Swimming in unofficial areas like canals or rivers carries health risks, including bacteria and algae. Additionally, jumping from bridges or locks is dangerous and strictly prohibited.

The Buurt Bestuurt committee in the Rotterdam neighborhood of Struisenburg is celebrating ten years of community involvement. This group consists of local residents who act as the eyes and ears of the area. They work closely with the municipality and police to solve local problems and improve living conditions for everyone. Over the last decade, the committee has achieved many successes, such as replacing jetties at the Buizengat and building a boules court. They are currently involved in discussions regarding the new Excelsior stadium to ensure social facilities are included for local residents. Their work proves that neighborhood members can have a real impact on local policy. Despite these achievements, the committee continues to advocate for new goals, such as finding a permanent meeting place for the community. Residents are invited to celebrate this milestone on July 18.

Marije Beens is the new consultant for ABDTOPConsult. The Council of Ministers approved her appointment, which starts on August 1, 2026. This group helps the government solve complex and urgent issues. ABDTOPConsult provides expert advice to ministries. They support the government in meeting its goals from the coalition agreement to improve public services.

Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva recently led an important meeting focused on scientific talent in Europe. The event brought together around 30 different groups, including universities, businesses, and student associations. Their goal was to find better ways to attract and keep skilled researchers within the European Union. The participants discussed how to make Europe a top choice for scientists. They looked at current tools like the 'Choose Europe for Science' initiative, which now has nearly one billion euros in funding. They also talked about the challenges that new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, create for researchers today. The feedback from this meeting will help shape new European laws and support programs. The Commission wants to ensure that researchers have good career paths and can move easily between different countries and industries to share their knowledge and ideas.

On July 10, 1976, a major chemical accident happened in Seveso, Italy. A cloud of toxic gas spread over the area, which put many people and the environment at risk. This event was a turning point for European safety standards. To prevent similar disasters, the European Union created the Seveso Directive in 1982. This law forced companies to improve how they manage dangerous materials. Today, the rules protect people at about 11,000 industrial sites across Europe, including chemical plants, refineries, and food production facilities. Fifty years later, the European Commission is updating its focus. Because of climate change, new digital risks, and energy transitions, the EU wants to make sure its safety rules stay strong. Officials say that preventing accidents remains essential to protecting citizens, the environment, and the future of European industry against new threats.

The European Commission has introduced new technical rules for carbon farming. These rules are part of the Carbon Removals and Carbon Farming regulation. They create a clear and fair way to check carbon projects across all European Union countries. The new rules cover three main areas. These include farming on mineral soils, the restoration of peatlands, and planting new forests. These activities help the environment by storing carbon and protecting nature. They also make land better at handling climate change and keep food supplies safe. These rules offer a new way for farmers and forest owners to earn money. By following these official guidelines, land managers can get financial rewards for sustainable work. This step helps the European Union reach its climate goals more effectively while supporting rural economies.

Russian hackers are using IP cameras to spy on European NATO countries, including the Netherlands. By hacking cameras connected to the internet, these hackers look for information about military supplies and transport routes to Ukraine. The Dutch intelligence services, AIVD and MIVD, found that some cameras on Dutch logistics routes were compromised. They have contacted the affected organizations to help them improve their security. It is important to know that these attacks often succeed because many cameras use weak passwords or outdated software, making them easy for attackers to find and access remotely. To protect against these threats, the intelligence services have published a security advisory. This document explains how companies and individuals can better secure their camera systems. They advise users to change default passwords, update device firmware, and improve configurations to prevent unauthorized access. As the Netherlands is a key transit country for military aid, the threat of digital espionage remains high. By following the new safety instructions, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of being watched by foreign states and help keep sensitive military information secure.

The Province of Zeeland and transport company EBS have presented the first bus for the upcoming 'Reizen door Zeeland' project. This event marks a major step in preparing for a new public transport system that begins in December. The province is moving toward a cleaner and more modern network. A total of 73 new electric buses from the brand BYD will be used for this service. These vehicles are fully emission-free and designed for better comfort for all passengers. Part of the fleet has already arrived in the country, and the rest will follow during the summer. The project includes both fixed bus lines and on-demand transport, known as Flex. This will provide flexible travel options for residents and visitors throughout the region for the next twelve years.

The Netherlands remains one of the top three most innovative countries in the European Union, according to the 2026 European Innovation Scoreboard. Only Sweden and Denmark perform better. Our country is classified as an Innovation Leader because our performance is 27.4% higher than the average in Europe. However, this is the second year in a row that our score has gone down. Minister Heleen Herbert is worried about this trend because other nations are growing faster in technology and science. To stop this decline, the government wants to invest more in research and development. Currently, we spend 2.29% of our gross domestic product on R&D, which is below the 3% target. New plans include creating special agencies to help startups.

The Dutch government is introducing a new proposal to make the reintegration process clearer for employers. Currently, employers face uncertainty about whether their efforts to help sick employees return to work are sufficient. Under the new plan, the advice from a company doctor will be the deciding factor during assessments. This change aims to provide employers with better guidance and reduce the time spent by the UWV on these reviews. Additionally, the proposal helps employees by removing the obligation to repay certain WIA benefit advances.

The business park De Waterlaat in Bergeijk has reached a new milestone. Companies at the park have signed the first group transport agreement in North Brabant. This agreement is a new way to deal with the busy electricity grid. Because the grid is very full, companies often struggle to get enough power for their business activities. By working together as an energy hub, the businesses can share and store electricity more effectively. They use a special computer system to watch their energy use every second. This system helps them manage their power needs so they can continue to grow sustainably. The project shows how local cooperation helps solve big problems. This initiative received support from the Province of North Brabant and the European OPZuid program. The partners are already planning a second agreement for later this year.

The general board of the Aa en Maas Water Authority has officially recommended Mario Jacobs for a second term as chair. A special committee praised his leadership and his ability to represent the water board effectively at regional and national levels. This decision was made unanimously by the board members. Looking ahead, Jacobs focuses on preparing the region for the effects of climate change. He emphasizes the need for new, robust solutions to keep water systems safe and reliable for the future.

The Aa and Maas Water Authority is taking action regarding PFAS pollution found at the Luitenant-Generaal Bestkazerne. Water currently flows from a drainage system installed in 1956 into the Eessenloop stream. This drainage system was built to keep the airbase runways stable. Recent checks revealed that this water contains PFAS, which likely comes from fire-fighting foam used in the past. To manage this situation, the Water Board has issued a temporary tolerance statement to the Ministry of Defence. This official document sets strict rules and deadlines for research and cleanup. The Ministry of Defence is working together with the Water Board to identify the source of the pollution and find ways to stop it. They are also looking at technical solutions to clean the water effectively. Reducing the total volume of discharged water is another important goal. Because the area is sensitive to drought, discharging less water will help the local nature. The Water Board continues to push for a national ban on PFAS.

Eindhoven and the Brainport region are currently dealing with a serious shortage of electricity grid capacity. Because of rapid growth in housing, businesses, and sustainable transport, the electricity demand has outpaced the current network. The municipality has completed an impact analysis to understand how this energy scarcity affects the city. This situation presents significant challenges for future building projects, as grid operators struggle to expand the network quickly enough to keep up with the rising demand. New construction projects, such as thousands of planned homes and schools, now face potential delays. To address this, Eindhoven is collaborating with regional partners to find smarter solutions for energy usage.

The Council of Ministers has officially appointed Ms. C. Caminada as the new Vice-President of the Criminal Chamber of the Supreme Court. Ms. Caminada, who has served as a Justice at the Supreme Court since 2020, will begin her new role in the middle of September 2026. Before her current position, Ms. Caminada worked as a senior judge at the Arnhem-Leeuwarden Court of Appeal and the Almelo District Court. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the Netherlands and handles important civil, criminal, and tax cases with a team of over 30 experienced justices.

The Dutch government has launched an internet consultation for a new legislative proposal. The plan is to create an independent supervisor for the legal profession, known as the OTA. Currently, supervision is handled by local bar associations. The new body will work independently from the government and the professional group itself. It will monitor all lawyers in the Netherlands and has the power to take action if rules are broken. The proposal includes a board with five members. Most of these members will not be lawyers, ensuring neutral oversight. Citizens can share their thoughts until mid-September.

The Province of Overijssel is introducing a new subsidy program to support community spirit in villages located near the Almelo-De Haandrik Canal. Starting October 5, 2026, residents, organizations, and businesses can apply for funding to launch initiatives that bring neighbors closer together. This program aims to address the challenges faced by local residents and encourage cooperation within the region. The funding covers a wide range of projects, such as neighborhood activities, public art, or new walking routes. There are specific options for small local improvements, larger village plans, and joint projects that connect multiple villages along the canal route.

Rijkswaterstaat has launched an experience survey for commercial inland waterway skippers. This project aims to collect valuable feedback on the current state of Dutch waterways, including bridge operations and overall safety. The data will help the government identify areas for improvement to ensure reliable navigation for the entire shipping sector. Professional skippers are invited to share their opinions by mid-September 2026. The online questionnaire takes approximately 15 minutes to complete and covers topics such as traffic flow and information services. Your input is essential for making the waterways safer and more efficient for everyone working in the industry.