A demonstration in The Hague’s Malieveld district on 20 September calling for stricter immigration policies turned violent, with clashes between protesters and police. Authorities deployed tear gas and water cannons after some demonstrators threw bottles and stones, set fire to police vehicles, and moved toward the city centre, damaging the office of the liberal D66 party.
Dutch officials from across the political spectrum condemned the violence. Justice Minister Foort van Oosten described attacks on officers as “absolutely unacceptable,” emphasising the right to peaceful protest. Far-right politician Geert Wilders also criticised the rioters. Frans Timmermans, leader of the Dutch Labour-Green alliance and former European Commissioner, warned that fear-driven politics fuel such unrest and called for citizens to engage responsibly in public debate.
The incident highlights growing tensions over immigration in the Netherlands and the challenges authorities face in maintaining public order during mass demonstrations.
Source: POLITICO
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