The Dutch economy has fallen into recession. The economy declined by 0.3% in the second quarter. This came after the economy shrank 0.4% in the first three months of the year.

Why did the Netherlands fall into recession after a strong COVID rebound?

A major fire broke out on a cargo vessel carrying around 3,000 vehicles off the Dutch coast on Wednesday (July 26), killing one crew member, believed to be an Indian citizen, and injuring others.

Dutch broadcaster NOS said that all the crew, 23 in total, were Indian. Except for the lone casualty, all were safely evacuated.

The 199-metre Panama-registered Fremantle Highway caught fire on Tuesday (July 25) when it was sailing in the North Sea, some 27 kilometres north of Ameland, The Netherlands. It was headed from Germany to Egypt.

The Dutch Kustwacht (Coast Guard) received a distress call around midnight after the crew member’s attempt to extinguish the fire was unsuccessful.

Rescue ships sprayed water onto the burning boat to cool it down, but using too much water risked its sinking, the Dutch coastguard said, reports Reuters news agency.

A salvage vessel was hooked on to stop it from drifting.

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Het kustwachtvliegtuig heeft beelden gemaakt van het schip Fremantle Highway. Updates over dit incident staan op ons liveblog (evenals het 🎥beeld voor de media): <a href="https://t.co/gWwfcKau0z">https://t.co/gWwfcKau0z</a> <a href="https://t.co/5725cNodUh">pic.twitter.com/5725cNodUh</a>
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<h2>'Vessel can still burn for days'</h2>

Officials said that the vessel "could still burn for days" even though its sinking may not pose any major environmental risk.

"The fire is most definitely still not controlled. It's a very hard fire to extinguish, possibly because of the cargo the ship was transporting," said Edwin Versteeg, a spokesperson for the Dutch Department of Waterways and Public Works.

Though the exact cause of fire is yet to be ascertained, Dutch public broadcaster NOS citing a coast guard official reported that one of the 25 electric cars onboard caught fire, and subsequently engulfed all the cars.

Around 350 of the total 2,857 vehicles on the ship on board were Mercedes-Benz cars, the company said.

The ship was still burning some 27 nautical miles (50 kilometres) north of the Dutch island of Ameland — located close to a major environmental and UNESCO heritage site

"The crew tried to put out the fire themselves&nbsp;but failed. Unfortunately, one person died and several others were injured," the&nbsp;coast guard said in a statement.

<h2>Indian embassy reacts</h2>

Meanwhile, the Embassy in the Netherlands said that it is in touch with the family members of the crew, and simultaneously coordinating with the Dutch authorities for all possible assistance.

“We are deeply saddened by the incident involving Ship ‘Fremantle Highway’ in North Sea, resulting in the death of an Indian seafarer &amp; injuries to the crew. Embassy of India is in touch with family of the deceased &amp; is assisting in repatriation of the mortal remains,” it posted on social media platform X, previously known as Twitter.

Embassy is also in touch with the remaining 20 injured crew members, who are safe and receiving medical attention. All possible assistance is being extended in coordination with the Dutch authorities and the shipping company.”

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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A major fire broke out on a cargo vessel carrying around 3,000 vehicles off the Dutch coast on Wednesday (July 26), killing one crew member, believed to be an Indian citizen, and injuring others.

A major fire broke out on a cargo vessel carrying around 3,000 vehicles off the Dutch coast on Wednesday (July 26), killing one crew member, believed to be an Indian citizen, and injuring others. Dutch broadcaster NOS said that all the crew, 23 in total, were Indian. Except for the lone casualty, all were safely evacuated. The 199-metre Panama-registered Fremantle Highway caught fire on Tuesday (July 25) when it was sailing in the North Sea, some 27 kilometres north of Ameland, The Netherlands. It was headed from Germany to Egypt. The Dutch Kustwacht (Coast Guard) received a distress call around midnight after the crew member’s attempt to extinguish the fire was unsuccessful. Rescue ships sprayed water onto the burning boat to cool it down, but using too much water risked its sinking, the Dutch coastguard said, reports Reuters news agency. A salvage vessel was hooked on to stop it from drifting. Het kustwachtvliegtuig heeft beelden gemaakt van het schip Fremantle Highway. Updates over dit incident staan op ons liveblog (evenals het 🎥beeld voor de media): https://t.co/gWwfcKau0z pic.twitter.com/5725cNodUh — Kustwacht Nederland (@Kustwacht_nl) July 26, 2023 × 'Vessel can still burn for days' Officials said that the vessel "could still burn for days" even though its sinking may not pose any major environmental risk. "The fire is most definitely still not controlled. It's a very hard fire to extinguish, possibly because of the cargo the ship was transporting," said Edwin Versteeg, a spokesperson for the Dutch Department of Waterways and Public Works. Though the exact cause of fire is yet to be ascertained, Dutch public broadcaster NOS citing a coast guard official reported that one of the 25 electric cars onboard caught fire, and subsequently engulfed all the cars. Around 350 of the total 2,857 vehicles on the ship on board were Mercedes-Benz cars, the company said. The ship was still burning some 27 nautical miles (50 kilometres) north of the Dutch island of Ameland — located close to a major environmental and UNESCO heritage site "The crew tried to put out the fire themselves but failed. Unfortunately, one person died and several others were injured," the coast guard said in a statement. Indian embassy reacts Meanwhile, the Embassy in the Netherlands said that it is in touch with the family members of the crew, and simultaneously coordinating with the Dutch authorities for all possible assistance. “We are deeply saddened by the incident involving Ship ‘Fremantle Highway’ in North Sea, resulting in the death of an Indian seafarer & injuries to the crew. Embassy of India is in touch with family of the deceased & is assisting in repatriation of the mortal remains,” it posted on social media platform X, previously known as Twitter. Embassy is also in touch with the remaining 20 injured crew members, who are safe and receiving medical attention. All possible assistance is being extended in coordination with the Dutch authorities and the shipping company.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Major fire breaks out on ship carrying 3,000 cars off Dutch coast, Indian crew member dead

After his coalition government disintegrated on Friday due to a disagreement over asylum policies, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced he would leave politics. One of Europe's longest-serving presidents, Rutte has been in office for almost 13 years.

Dutch PM Mark Rutte to leave politics after ruling coalition fails to agree on migration policy

European politics has become more conservative on migration compared to a decade ago, leading to a collapse of the Dutch government over an immigration bill. The Netherlands proposed restrictions on the flow of asylum seekers and delays in family reunification for children of war refugees already in the country.

UK: Immigration issue driving political fortunes of right-wing parties

Dutch government collapses as Europe shifts to conservative migration stance

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte's coalition government collapsed Friday over "insurmountable" differences among the alliance partners on how to tackle migration, with elections expected in November.

Rutte, 56, the Netherlands' longest-serving leader and one of Europe's most experienced politicians, said days of crisis talks between the four parties failed to produce a deal.

They fell out over Rutte's plans to tighten curbs on reuniting families of asylum seekers, a bid to curb numbers following a scandal last year over overcrowded migration centres.

"It is no secret that the coalition partners have very different views on migration policy," Rutte, the leader of the centre-right VVD party, told a press conference after talks broke down.

"This evening, we have unfortunately reached the conclusion that the differences are insurmountable. For this reason, I will shortly present my written resignation to the king in the name of the whole government."

The government later confirmed he had presented his resignation and would visit King Willem-Alexander on Saturday.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ditch-baggage-rent-clothes-what-is-the-new-trend-sparked-by-japan-airlines-613225">Ditch baggage, rent clothes: What is the new trend sparked by Japan Airlines?</a>

The coalition was Rutte's fourth since he took office in 2010. This time, he had assumed office in January 2022 after a record 271 days of negotiations and was deeply divided on many issues.

Rutte -- dubbed "Teflon Mark" after the non-stick pan coating for his ability to avoid political catastrophe -- added that he had the "energy" to stand for a fifth term but that he had to "reflect" first.

The earliest that elections can be held is in mid-November, the Dutch election commission said.

Rutte said he would lead a caretaker government until then that would focus on tasks including support for Ukraine.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-boss-prigozhin-never-went-to-belarus-used-body-double-to-appear-as-if-he-fled-us-official-613222">Wagner boss Prigozhin never went to Belarus, used body double to appear as if he fled Russia: US official</a>

The sudden collapse sparked bitter recriminations between the four parties in the year-and-a-half-old coalition, which had been dubbed "Rutte IV".

ChristenUnie -- a Christian Democratic party that draws its main support from the staunchly Protestant "Bible Belt" in the central Netherlands -- and centre-left D66 had opposed Rutte's plan.

He reportedly demanded that the number of relatives of war refugees allowed into the Netherlands be capped at 200 per month.

Watch | The unstoppable Chhetri

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Rutte had promised to tackle migration after last summer's migration centres scandal, during which a baby died and hundreds of people were forced to sleep in the open.

"The family, that children grow up with their parents, is a core value for us," said deputy prime minister Carola Schouten of ChristenUnie, adding it was "a very difficult moment".

Finance Minister Sigrid Kaag of D66 said there was "unnecessary tension in the process" and that the collapse was "regrettable".

Foreign Minister Wopke Hoekstra of the centre-right Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA) said the fall of the government was "very disappointing, unnecessary and inexplicable to the people of the country".

The Netherlands now faces one of its most stormy and divisive election campaigns in years.

The upstart BBB party, led by farmers who oppose the government's European Union-backed environmental rules, will be seeking to repeat the success of senate elections that it won earlier this year.

Its leader Caroline van der Plas has refused to serve in a coalition with Rutte, and she didn't rule out standing for the prime minister's job if her party&nbsp;wins the most seats in the general election.

Local media said Rutte had taken a tough stance on migration to deflect a challenge from the right wing of the VVD, whose voters the farmer party has begun to woo.

And Rutte has long been under pressure on the issue of migration due to the strength of far-right parties in the Netherlands, including that of anti-Islam leader Geert Wilders.

After the collapse of the government, a crowd of onlookers gathered outside the government buildings where the talks had taken place in the historic centre of The Hague.

"I'm quite concerned. I'm worried what the next cabinet is going to look like," 19-year-old IT worker Marijn Philippo told AFP.

"I hope that the next cabinet will do better than this one, especially in terms of asylum," added Pieter Balkenende, 32.

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Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte's coalition government collapsed Friday over "insurmountable" differences among the alliance partners on how to tackle migration, with elections expected in November.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte's coalition government collapsed Friday over "insurmountable" differences among the alliance partners on how to tackle migration, with elections expected in November. Rutte, 56, the Netherlands' longest-serving leader and one of Europe's most experienced politicians, said days of crisis talks between the four parties failed to produce a deal. They fell out over Rutte's plans to tighten curbs on reuniting families of asylum seekers, a bid to curb numbers following a scandal last year over overcrowded migration centres. "It is no secret that the coalition partners have very different views on migration policy," Rutte, the leader of the centre-right VVD party, told a press conference after talks broke down. "This evening, we have unfortunately reached the conclusion that the differences are insurmountable. For this reason, I will shortly present my written resignation to the king in the name of the whole government." The government later confirmed he had presented his resignation and would visit King Willem-Alexander on Saturday. Also Read | Ditch baggage, rent clothes: What is the new trend sparked by Japan Airlines? The coalition was Rutte's fourth since he took office in 2010. This time, he had assumed office in January 2022 after a record 271 days of negotiations and was deeply divided on many issues. Rutte -- dubbed "Teflon Mark" after the non-stick pan coating for his ability to avoid political catastrophe -- added that he had the "energy" to stand for a fifth term but that he had to "reflect" first. The earliest that elections can be held is in mid-November, the Dutch election commission said. Rutte said he would lead a caretaker government until then that would focus on tasks including support for Ukraine. Also Read | Wagner boss Prigozhin never went to Belarus, used body double to appear as if he fled Russia: US official The sudden collapse sparked bitter recriminations between the four parties in the year-and-a-half-old coalition, which had been dubbed "Rutte IV". ChristenUnie -- a Christian Democratic party that draws its main support from the staunchly Protestant "Bible Belt" in the central Netherlands -- and centre-left D66 had opposed Rutte's plan. He reportedly demanded that the number of relatives of war refugees allowed into the Netherlands be capped at 200 per month. Watch | The unstoppable Chhetri × Rutte had promised to tackle migration after last summer's migration centres scandal, during which a baby died and hundreds of people were forced to sleep in the open. "The family, that children grow up with their parents, is a core value for us," said deputy prime minister Carola Schouten of ChristenUnie, adding it was "a very difficult moment". Finance Minister Sigrid Kaag of D66 said there was "unnecessary tension in the process" and that the collapse was "regrettable". Foreign Minister Wopke Hoekstra of the centre-right Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA) said the fall of the government was "very disappointing, unnecessary and inexplicable to the people of the country". The Netherlands now faces one of its most stormy and divisive election campaigns in years. The upstart BBB party, led by farmers who oppose the government's European Union-backed environmental rules, will be seeking to repeat the success of senate elections that it won earlier this year. Its leader Caroline van der Plas has refused to serve in a coalition with Rutte, and she didn't rule out standing for the prime minister's job if her party wins the most seats in the general election. Local media said Rutte had taken a tough stance on migration to deflect a challenge from the right wing of the VVD, whose voters the farmer party has begun to woo. And Rutte has long been under pressure on the issue of migration due to the strength of far-right parties in the Netherlands, including that of anti-Islam leader Geert Wilders. After the collapse of the government, a crowd of onlookers gathered outside the government buildings where the talks had taken place in the historic centre of The Hague. "I'm quite concerned. I'm worried what the next cabinet is going to look like," 19-year-old IT worker Marijn Philippo told AFP. "I hope that the next cabinet will do better than this one, especially in terms of asylum," added Pieter Balkenende, 32. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Dutch PM Mark Rutte resigns as coalition talks over policy to check migration fail

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte is due to meet&nbsp;King Willem-Alexander on Saturday (July 8) following his&nbsp;resignation,&nbsp;late Friday, after 13 years in power as his coalition government failed to reach a consensus on migration policy. Citing 'irreconciable' differences on how to tackle the immigration problem&nbsp;as the reason, Rutte's shock resignation has set the stage for fresh elections later this year.&nbsp;

During the&nbsp;Dutch PM's&nbsp;meeting with the King, he is expected to&nbsp;discuss a caretaker administration following the collapse of the centre-right government. However, since&nbsp;King Willem-Alexander is the head of the state, he might ask&nbsp;Rutte's coalition to continue as a&nbsp;caretaker government until a new administration is formed after the elections.&nbsp;

"This evening we have unfortunately reached the conclusion that the differences are insurmountable. That is why I will immediately...offer the resignation of the entire cabinet to the king in writing," Rutte told reporters in The Hague.&nbsp;

"It is no secret that the coalition partners have very different views on migration policy. And today, unfortunately, we have to draw the conclusion that those differences are irreconcilable," he added.&nbsp;

Rutte is the leader of&nbsp;the conservative People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) and has been the Dutch prime minister since 2010. However, his current tenure came to a grinding halt, just one and a half years after coming to power in January 2022.&nbsp;

<h2>Why did Rutte resign?</h2>

Notably, Rutte's VVD and&nbsp;&nbsp;Christian Democrat Appeal party (CDA) are all in for stricter measures on migration, but the&nbsp;centre-left Democrats 66 (D66) and Christian Union (ChristenUnie) do not share the same vision.&nbsp;

Rutte wanted to tighten curbs on reuniting families of asylum seekers after a scandal last year about overcrowded asylum seekers. The conservative leader wanted to cap the number of war refugees allowed into the Netherlands to 200 per month. He threatened to walk away and topple the government if the four-party coalition did not pass his measures.

However, D66 and ChristenUnie remained staunchly opposed to the measures. To reach a breakthrough and save the shaky government, talks were held on Wednesday and Thursday but to no fruition.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-ambassador-lectures-india-over-manipur-613260">WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: US Ambassador lectures India over Manipur</a>

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<h2>What next?</h2>

The scheduled elections were due to take place in 2025 but the developments on Friday mean the timeline could be pushed back.&nbsp;Rutte said he would lead a caretaker government until then that would focus on tasks including support for Ukraine.

The opposition leaders, however, have called for 'quick, snap' elections.&nbsp;Geert Wilders, leader of the anti-immigration Party for Freedom (PVV), took to&nbsp;Twitter and batted against Rutte leading the caretaker government.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dutch-king-offers-apology-for-slavery-during-colonial-era-610902">Also read |&nbsp;Dutch king offers apology for slavery during colonial era</a>

After the election results were announced in 2021, it took almost nine months for the parties to find a functioning coalition.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rutte's VVD emerged as the largest party but won less than 22 per cent&nbsp;of the vote. Only two other parties had support above 10 per cent, while no fewer than&nbsp;17 groups won at least one seat in the House of Representatives. Thus, it looks highly unlikely that another coalition can come in and fill the void left by the collapse of the Rutte-led four-party arrangement.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte is due to meet King Willem-Alexander on Saturday (July 8) following his resignation, late Friday, after 13 years in power as his coalition government failed to reach a consensus on migration policy.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte is due to meet King Willem-Alexander on Saturday (July 8) following his resignation, late Friday, after 13 years in power as his coalition government failed to reach a consensus on migration policy. Citing 'irreconciable' differences on how to tackle the immigration problem as the reason, Rutte's shock resignation has set the stage for fresh elections later this year. During the Dutch PM's meeting with the King, he is expected to discuss a caretaker administration following the collapse of the centre-right government. However, since King Willem-Alexander is the head of the state, he might ask Rutte's coalition to continue as a caretaker government until a new administration is formed after the elections. "This evening we have unfortunately reached the conclusion that the differences are insurmountable. That is why I will immediately...offer the resignation of the entire cabinet to the king in writing," Rutte told reporters in The Hague. "It is no secret that the coalition partners have very different views on migration policy. And today, unfortunately, we have to draw the conclusion that those differences are irreconcilable," he added. Rutte is the leader of the conservative People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) and has been the Dutch prime minister since 2010. However, his current tenure came to a grinding halt, just one and a half years after coming to power in January 2022. Why did Rutte resign? Notably, Rutte's VVD and Christian Democrat Appeal party (CDA) are all in for stricter measures on migration, but the centre-left Democrats 66 (D66) and Christian Union (ChristenUnie) do not share the same vision. Rutte wanted to tighten curbs on reuniting families of asylum seekers after a scandal last year about overcrowded asylum seekers. The conservative leader wanted to cap the number of war refugees allowed into the Netherlands to 200 per month. He threatened to walk away and topple the government if the four-party coalition did not pass his measures. However, D66 and ChristenUnie remained staunchly opposed to the measures. To reach a breakthrough and save the shaky government, talks were held on Wednesday and Thursday but to no fruition. WATCH | Gravitas: US Ambassador lectures India over Manipur × What next? The scheduled elections were due to take place in 2025 but the developments on Friday mean the timeline could be pushed back. Rutte said he would lead a caretaker government until then that would focus on tasks including support for Ukraine. The opposition leaders, however, have called for 'quick, snap' elections. Geert Wilders, leader of the anti-immigration Party for Freedom (PVV), took to Twitter and batted against Rutte leading the caretaker government. Also read | Dutch king offers apology for slavery during colonial era After the election results were announced in 2021, it took almost nine months for the parties to find a functioning coalition. Rutte's VVD emerged as the largest party but won less than 22 per cent of the vote. Only two other parties had support above 10 per cent, while no fewer than 17 groups won at least one seat in the House of Representatives. Thus, it looks highly unlikely that another coalition can come in and fill the void left by the collapse of the Rutte-led four-party arrangement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Longest-serving Dutch PM Mark Rutte resigns after talks on migration fail, to update king on govt collapse

In a move to minimise distractions and promote focused learning, the Dutch government has announced that mobile phones, tablets, and smartwatches will be widely prohibited in classrooms starting from January 1, 2024.&nbsp;The aim is to create an environment that limits the interference caused by these devices during lessons.

However, there will be few exceptions for the use of these devices, Reuters news agency reported.&nbsp;Under the new changes, the use of mobile devices will only be permitted if they are deemed essential. For example, they may be allowed during lessons focused on digital skills, for medical purposes, or for individuals with disabilities who rely on such devices.

<h2>Mobile phones are a disruption to learning</h2>

Education Minister Robbert Dijkgraaf stressed the need for students to concentrate and have the best possible conditions for effective studying. He stated that while mobile phones have become deeply integrated into everyone's lives, they are not suitable for the classroom.

"Even though mobile phones are intertwined with our lives, they do not belong in the classroom," the minister said in a statement.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philadelphia-gunman-identified-as-gun-loving-blm-supporter-kimbrady-carriker-reports-612409">Philadelphia gunman identified as gun-loving BLM supporter Kimbrady Carriker: Reports</a>

He also said that scientific research supports the claim that mobile phones are a disruption to learning, and therefore it is essential to safeguard students from this distraction.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-killed-two-injured-after-explosions-rock-ukrainian-court-612402">One killed, two injured after multiple explosions rock Ukrainian court</a>

"Students need to be able to concentrate and need to be given the opportunity to study well. Mobile phones are a disturbance, scientific research shows. We need to protect students against this," the statement by the education minister said.&nbsp;

<h2>Collaborative efforts for implementation</h2>

The ban is the outcome of a collaborative agreement between the Ministry of Education, schools, and associated organisations. Dijkgraaf mentioned that schools have the flexibility to devise their own strategies for enforcing the ban.

Watch | British children are shorter than their European peers , says experts

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However, he also cautioned that if satisfactory results are not achieved by the summer of 2024, legal regulations will be put in place to ensure compliance.

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&nbsp;

In a move to minimise distractions and promote focused learning, the Dutch government has announced that mobile phones, tablets, and smartwatches will be widely prohibited in classrooms starting from January 1, 2024.

In a move to minimise distractions and promote focused learning, the Dutch government has announced that mobile phones, tablets, and smartwatches will be widely prohibited in classrooms starting from January 1, 2024. The aim is to create an environment that limits the interference caused by these devices during lessons. However, there will be few exceptions for the use of these devices, Reuters news agency reported. Under the new changes, the use of mobile devices will only be permitted if they are deemed essential. For example, they may be allowed during lessons focused on digital skills, for medical purposes, or for individuals with disabilities who rely on such devices. Mobile phones are a disruption to learning Education Minister Robbert Dijkgraaf stressed the need for students to concentrate and have the best possible conditions for effective studying. He stated that while mobile phones have become deeply integrated into everyone's lives, they are not suitable for the classroom. "Even though mobile phones are intertwined with our lives, they do not belong in the classroom," the minister said in a statement. Also Read | Philadelphia gunman identified as gun-loving BLM supporter Kimbrady Carriker: Reports He also said that scientific research supports the claim that mobile phones are a disruption to learning, and therefore it is essential to safeguard students from this distraction. Also Read | One killed, two injured after multiple explosions rock Ukrainian court "Students need to be able to concentrate and need to be given the opportunity to study well. Mobile phones are a disturbance, scientific research shows. We need to protect students against this," the statement by the education minister said. Collaborative efforts for implementation The ban is the outcome of a collaborative agreement between the Ministry of Education, schools, and associated organisations. Dijkgraaf mentioned that schools have the flexibility to devise their own strategies for enforcing the ban. Watch | British children are shorter than their European peers , says experts × However, he also cautioned that if satisfactory results are not achieved by the summer of 2024, legal regulations will be put in place to ensure compliance. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Netherlands to ban mobile devices in classrooms from next year

Since slavery was officially abolished in the Netherlands 160 years ago, it is uncommon to see a monarch apologise, but the Dutch king did so on the occasion of the country's involvement in slavery.

Dutch king offers apology on anniversary of abolition of slavery

A Dutch research scientist living in the United Kingdom along with his six-year-old daughter was asked to leave within two months after his skilled worker visa was cancelled by the Home Office, reported the British media, on Tuesday (May 27). However, it was later found that the government had incorrectly sent him the notification. The incident has since left the 39-year-old in a “state of disbelief”.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened?</h2>

The 39-year-old&nbsp;Dutch research scientist&nbsp;Bobby Stuijfzand received a letter from the British Home Office&nbsp;earlier this month&nbsp;which informed him that his skilled migrant visa is being cancelled and he has to leave the country in August.&nbsp;

This comes after Stuijfzand had reportedly switched to a family visa over a year ago being a father of his six-year-old British daughter Malou to legally stay in the UK. The notification in question quoted by British media outlets said that his skilled worker visa which granted him entry clearance had been removed as he “stopped working for your sponsor”.&nbsp;

But this was also not the case since Stuijfzand is still employed by the same company. The letter added, “You do not have a right of appeal or administrative review against the decision to cancel your permission to stay.”&nbsp;

<h2>‘State of disbelief’: Stuijfzand about the mix-up</h2>

The 39-year-old moved near London, England from Switzerland in 2021, so that his&nbsp;daughter, who was born in Bristol, could be closer to his&nbsp;English wife’s relatives after she passed away due to cancer.&nbsp;

At the time, he was not able to apply for the European Union settled status, which was an immigration option for EU citizens after Brexit, as&nbsp;he fell short of the requirement of five years of residency since his family moved to Switzerland in 2018.&nbsp;

Furthermore, he still works for the Behavioural Insights Team and while his skilled migrant visa has expired, Stuijfzand no longer requires it to stay in the UK since he switched to a parental visa 18 months before the notification was sent to him.&nbsp;

Speaking to the UK-based media outlet, Standard, Stuijfzand, said he was in a “state of disbelief” after the Home Office sent him the letter. He also took to Twitter after the government’s blunder and wrote, “I have two months this summer to pack up, leave my job, find my daughter a new school in the Netherlands and cross the North Sea.”&nbsp;

He initially suspected that there had been an error and after multiple attempts to inform the Home Office failed, Stuijfzand&nbsp;wrote them an email informing them that he believes there has been a mistake.&nbsp;

Stuijfzand also spoke about how he was shocked at the accusatory and “threatening” tone of the letter which said he could be detained, prosecuted, fined and imprisoned, removed and banned from returning to the UK, as per the Guardian. Additionally, he was also told that his earnings could be seized and assets confiscated, and bank accounts frozen, if he worked illegally.&nbsp;

<h2>How did the UK Home Office respond to the incident?</h2>

When media outlets began contacting the Home Office about the incident, they confirmed that they made a mistake and would get in touch with Stuijfzand. “Unfortunately a visa cancellation letter was issued to Dr Stuijfzand in error. We have issued a retraction and we apologise for any inconvenience this has caused him and his family,” said the government&nbsp;in a statement.&nbsp;

However, while the error has been fixed, they have not contacted the Dutch scientist, as of Tuesday. “I don’t think I’ll be very rested until I’ve received that confirmation,” he told the Standard. 
 
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A Dutch research scientist living in the United Kingdom along with his six-year-old daughter was asked to leave within two months after his skilled worker visa was cancelled by the Home Office, reported the British media, on Tuesday (May 27).

A Dutch research scientist living in the United Kingdom along with his six-year-old daughter was asked to leave within two months after his skilled worker visa was cancelled by the Home Office, reported the British media, on Tuesday (May 27). However, it was later found that the government had incorrectly sent him the notification. The incident has since left the 39-year-old in a “state of disbelief”. What happened? The 39-year-old Dutch research scientist Bobby Stuijfzand received a letter from the British Home Office earlier this month which informed him that his skilled migrant visa is being cancelled and he has to leave the country in August. This comes after Stuijfzand had reportedly switched to a family visa over a year ago being a father of his six-year-old British daughter Malou to legally stay in the UK. The notification in question quoted by British media outlets said that his skilled worker visa which granted him entry clearance had been removed as he “stopped working for your sponsor”. But this was also not the case since Stuijfzand is still employed by the same company. The letter added, “You do not have a right of appeal or administrative review against the decision to cancel your permission to stay.” ‘State of disbelief’: Stuijfzand about the mix-up The 39-year-old moved near London, England from Switzerland in 2021, so that his daughter, who was born in Bristol, could be closer to his English wife’s relatives after she passed away due to cancer. At the time, he was not able to apply for the European Union settled status, which was an immigration option for EU citizens after Brexit, as he fell short of the requirement of five years of residency since his family moved to Switzerland in 2018. Furthermore, he still works for the Behavioural Insights Team and while his skilled migrant visa has expired, Stuijfzand no longer requires it to stay in the UK since he switched to a parental visa 18 months before the notification was sent to him. Speaking to the UK-based media outlet, Standard, Stuijfzand, said he was in a “state of disbelief” after the Home Office sent him the letter. He also took to Twitter after the government’s blunder and wrote, “I have two months this summer to pack up, leave my job, find my daughter a new school in the Netherlands and cross the North Sea.” He initially suspected that there had been an error and after multiple attempts to inform the Home Office failed, Stuijfzand wrote them an email informing them that he believes there has been a mistake. Stuijfzand also spoke about how he was shocked at the accusatory and “threatening” tone of the letter which said he could be detained, prosecuted, fined and imprisoned, removed and banned from returning to the UK, as per the Guardian. Additionally, he was also told that his earnings could be seized and assets confiscated, and bank accounts frozen, if he worked illegally. How did the UK Home Office respond to the incident? When media outlets began contacting the Home Office about the incident, they confirmed that they made a mistake and would get in touch with Stuijfzand. “Unfortunately a visa cancellation letter was issued to Dr Stuijfzand in error. We have issued a retraction and we apologise for any inconvenience this has caused him and his family,” said the government in a statement. However, while the error has been fixed, they have not contacted the Dutch scientist, as of Tuesday. “I don’t think I’ll be very rested until I’ve received that confirmation,” he told the Standard. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Dutch widower with British daughter asked to leave UK after Home Office blunder: Here's what happened

Dutch military intelligence warned the American intelligence service, CIA, last year about an alleged Ukrainian plan to blow up the Nord Stream pipelines three months before they were hit, Dutch public broadcaster NOS reported on Tuesday without specifying a source.

Dutch intelligence warned CIA about alleged Ukrainian plot to attack Nord Stream pipelines : Report

In yet another violent attack in France, an 11-year-old British girl was shot dead and her father seriously wounded in the garden of her home in a small French village of Brittany, after their Dutch neighbour in the northwestern region of the country allegedly opened fire, the local officials reported on Monday (June 12).&nbsp; 
 
In a press conference, prosecutor Camille Miansoni told a press conference in Brest, said that the accused has been charged with murder.&nbsp;

<h2>What do we know about the incident?</h2>

The family was said to be in the garden of their home in the village of Saint-Herbot near Quimper in Brittany when their Dutch neighbour appeared with a firearm and allegedly shot at them multiple times, said the local prosecutor. The officials have also said that the neighbours had been embroiled in a year-long dispute over a plot of land.&nbsp;

Quimper public prosecutor Carine Halley, in a statement on Sunday, said that the incident took place at around 10:00 pm (local time) and the police intervened sometime after the shooting. According to the magistrate, the 11-year-old girl was found dead at the scene while her father had sustained life-threatening injuries.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Halley said that the mother’s life was not in danger while the couple’s second child did not sustain any injuries but was “in a state of shock”.&nbsp;The victims were&nbsp;later identified as Solaine Thornton (11) and her father&nbsp;Adrian&nbsp;Thornton.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Britain’s Foreign Office said it was providing consular assistance to a British family following a shooting.

<h2>Dutch national charged with murder</h2>

The statement by the local prosecutor also said that “Initial evidence suggests the victims’ neighbour, a 71-year-old Dutch pensioner, suddenly appeared armed with a firearm and fired several shots in the direction of the victims...before retreating to his home with his wife.”&nbsp; 
 
According to&nbsp;Miansoni, during a search of the&nbsp;Dutch couple's property, the officials also found&nbsp;two rifles, one of which had not been previously declared. The&nbsp;prosecutors also said that both Dutch nationals tested positive for alcohol and cannabis. The duo&nbsp;has&nbsp;no previous convictions.

It has been reported that the shooter only identified as a 71-year-old Dutch pensioner and his wife have surrendered to authorities and been arrested.&nbsp;

A police source told AFP that the neighbour had fired his rifle through a hedge before retreating to his home with his wife. While the motive was not immediately clear and police were still trying to determine the reason, “it would appear that there had been a dispute between the two neighbours for several years over a plot of land adjoining the two properties,” said Halley.&nbsp;

“There were neighbourhood issues, yes, a hedge, a field, but nothing more than that, not that we were aware of,” Regine Guillot, secretary of the nearest town hall in Plonevez-du-Faou told Reuters.&nbsp;

He added, “The village is in shock.” The town official also told the news agency that the British family had lived in the hamlet for five years while the alleged shooter was a private man. Additionally, given the gravity of the case, it was handed to the public prosecutor in Brest.&nbsp;

The incident also comes days after France was left shocked after four preschool children were stabbed mercilessly by a Syrian refugee knifeman in the French town of Annecy, last week. 
 
On Thursday, around 9:45 am (local time), the suspect, wearing a blue-chequered headscarf and sunglasses, armed with a 10-centimetre-long knife, attacked a group of children.

Some even aged around three years old. One of the horrifying videos shows the suspect coming close to a baby in a pram and stabbing the little one multiple times.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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In yet another violent attack in France, an 11-year-old British girl was shot dead and her father seriously wounded in the garden of her home in a small French village of Brittany, after their Dutch neighbour in the northwestern region of the country allegedly opened fire, the local officials reported on Monday (June 12).

In yet another violent attack in France, an 11-year-old British girl was shot dead and her father seriously wounded in the garden of her home in a small French village of Brittany, after their Dutch neighbour in the northwestern region of the country allegedly opened fire, the local officials reported on Monday (June 12). In a press conference, prosecutor Camille Miansoni told a press conference in Brest, said that the accused has been charged with murder. What do we know about the incident? The family was said to be in the garden of their home in the village of Saint-Herbot near Quimper in Brittany when their Dutch neighbour appeared with a firearm and allegedly shot at them multiple times, said the local prosecutor. The officials have also said that the neighbours had been embroiled in a year-long dispute over a plot of land. Quimper public prosecutor Carine Halley, in a statement on Sunday, said that the incident took place at around 10:00 pm (local time) and the police intervened sometime after the shooting. According to the magistrate, the 11-year-old girl was found dead at the scene while her father had sustained life-threatening injuries. Meanwhile, Halley said that the mother’s life was not in danger while the couple’s second child did not sustain any injuries but was “in a state of shock”. The victims were later identified as Solaine Thornton (11) and her father Adrian Thornton. Meanwhile, Britain’s Foreign Office said it was providing consular assistance to a British family following a shooting. Dutch national charged with murder The statement by the local prosecutor also said that “Initial evidence suggests the victims’ neighbour, a 71-year-old Dutch pensioner, suddenly appeared armed with a firearm and fired several shots in the direction of the victims...before retreating to his home with his wife.” According to Miansoni, during a search of the Dutch couple's property, the officials also found two rifles, one of which had not been previously declared. The prosecutors also said that both Dutch nationals tested positive for alcohol and cannabis. The duo has no previous convictions. It has been reported that the shooter only identified as a 71-year-old Dutch pensioner and his wife have surrendered to authorities and been arrested. A police source told AFP that the neighbour had fired his rifle through a hedge before retreating to his home with his wife. While the motive was not immediately clear and police were still trying to determine the reason, “it would appear that there had been a dispute between the two neighbours for several years over a plot of land adjoining the two properties,” said Halley. “There were neighbourhood issues, yes, a hedge, a field, but nothing more than that, not that we were aware of,” Regine Guillot, secretary of the nearest town hall in Plonevez-du-Faou told Reuters. He added, “The village is in shock.” The town official also told the news agency that the British family had lived in the hamlet for five years while the alleged shooter was a private man. Additionally, given the gravity of the case, it was handed to the public prosecutor in Brest. The incident also comes days after France was left shocked after four preschool children were stabbed mercilessly by a Syrian refugee knifeman in the French town of Annecy, last week. On Thursday, around 9:45 am (local time), the suspect, wearing a blue-chequered headscarf and sunglasses, armed with a 10-centimetre-long knife, attacked a group of children. Some even aged around three years old. One of the horrifying videos shows the suspect coming close to a baby in a pram and stabbing the little one multiple times. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

11-year-old British girl shot dead, father critically injured in French village; suspect charged with murder

Egyptian officials have banned Dutch archaeologists from Egypt. This anger is rooted in Beyonce's 2018 costume which she wore in the Coachella event. What is this all about? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Egypt bans Dutch archaeologists over Beyonce's Egyptian outfit

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said he will lay out the need to defend Ukraine in the war with Russia on Tuesday when he meets Brazilian President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva, who has been critical of arming the Ukrainians.

Dutch PM to discuss defence of Ukraine with Brazil's Lula

European Nations are under pressure to fulfil their climate promises. They vowed to stop relying on fossil fuels and to improve their energy security. To this end, a huge green energy project is being planned by UK and Netherlands in the North Sea. The deal was announced on Monday at an energy summit in Ostend, Belgium.

UK and Dutch governments sign deal for a huge green energy project

Jonathan Jacob Meijer, a 41-year-old Dutchman, might find himself in a bit of trouble for his apparent "good deed". Meijer, a sperm donor, is believed to have fathered 550 children, but The Times reported that he is being sued for increasing the risk of accidental incest.&nbsp;

Meijer is reportedly from The Hague and&nbsp;now lives in Kenya.&nbsp;He is a musician by profession. The report states that the civil lawsuit has been filed by Donorkind Foundation, which is a Dutch organisation that advocates donor kids.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/humans-to-attain-immortality-by-2029-ex-google-scientist-makes-striking-claim-577292">Humans to attain immortality by 2029? Ex-Google scientist makes striking claim</a>&nbsp;

The organisation wants the court to take action against Meijer's excessive donation. Apparently, sperm donation of this magnitude breached existing rules in the Netherlands and many other countries.&nbsp;

The organisation&nbsp;has asked the court to identify which clinics he has donated to and destroy his samples stored there.

However, it also noted that an exception can be made for those samples which are stored by women who had Meijer's child and might want a genetic sibling in future.&nbsp;

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As quoted by Donorkind Foundation, lawyer Mark de Hek feels that the donor is acting unlawfully. He said, "This behavior is dangerous for the mental well-being and health of donor children. By favoring his reproductive drive, the donor is acting unlawfully."&nbsp;

"In addition, he violates the agreements with the clinics and with the prospective parents, because they trusted his promise that he would father a maximum of 25 children," the lawyer added.&nbsp;

As quoted by VICE, Ties van der Meer, who is chair of the Donorkind Foundation, said in a statement that Meijer was believed to have fathered at least 550 children, using at least 13 clinics around the world. Meijer is apparently using donation sites and social media to approach people wishing to conceive.&nbsp;

"We are taking action against this man because the national government is doing nothing. He has a global reach via the internet and he does business with large international sperm banks," van der Meer said.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
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Jonathan Jacob Meijer, a 41-year-old Dutchman, might find himself in a bit of trouble for his apparent "good deed". Meijer, a sperm donor, is believed to have fathered 550 children, but The Times reported that he is being sued for increasing the risk of accidental incest.

Jonathan Jacob Meijer, a 41-year-old Dutchman, might find himself in a bit of trouble for his apparent "good deed". Meijer, a sperm donor, is believed to have fathered 550 children, but The Times reported that he is being sued for increasing the risk of accidental incest. Meijer is reportedly from The Hague and now lives in Kenya. He is a musician by profession. The report states that the civil lawsuit has been filed by Donorkind Foundation, which is a Dutch organisation that advocates donor kids. ALSO READ | Humans to attain immortality by 2029? Ex-Google scientist makes striking claim The organisation wants the court to take action against Meijer's excessive donation. Apparently, sperm donation of this magnitude breached existing rules in the Netherlands and many other countries. The organisation has asked the court to identify which clinics he has donated to and destroy his samples stored there. However, it also noted that an exception can be made for those samples which are stored by women who had Meijer's child and might want a genetic sibling in future. WATCH | How Logo holds the value of a brand and why they are worth investing in? × As quoted by Donorkind Foundation, lawyer Mark de Hek feels that the donor is acting unlawfully. He said, "This behavior is dangerous for the mental well-being and health of donor children. By favoring his reproductive drive, the donor is acting unlawfully." "In addition, he violates the agreements with the clinics and with the prospective parents, because they trusted his promise that he would father a maximum of 25 children," the lawyer added. As quoted by VICE, Ties van der Meer, who is chair of the Donorkind Foundation, said in a statement that Meijer was believed to have fathered at least 550 children, using at least 13 clinics around the world. Meijer is apparently using donation sites and social media to approach people wishing to conceive. "We are taking action against this man because the national government is doing nothing. He has a global reach via the internet and he does business with large international sperm banks," van der Meer said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

This man has fathered more than 500 kids. He is being sued now

The Dutch government has decided to place restrictions on the export of technology to manufacture microchips. The export control aims to prevent military use and protect Netherlands' unique and leading position in such technologies.

Dutch government restricts export of microchip technology

As Ukraine is all set to mark one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte landed in Kyiv on Friday to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;Netherlands prime minister is accompanied by Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation of the Netherlands, Liesje Schreinemacher.&nbsp;Rutte on Friday morning visited the Wall of Memory in Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital and laid a wreath to honour the fallen defenders of Ukraine.

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This is the second time the prime minister is visiting Ukraine, the last being in July last year when&nbsp;he visited Borodjanka, Boetsja, and Irpin, a suburb of Kyiv.&nbsp;

In a joint conference with Rutte in Kyiv, Zelenskyy said that Ukraine has a "common understanding with the Netherlands that there should not be any taboo on the supply and support of weapons to our army, to our Ukraine, because it supports and protects our sovereignty."&nbsp;

Earlier this month, some members of the Dutch Parliament visited the Ukrainian capital where they discussed the security situation with the government officials.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-poland-belarusian-president-invites-biden-to-minsk-instead-to-end-the-war-563028">'Why Poland?': Belarusian president invites Biden to Minsk instead, to 'end the war'</a>

Netherlands Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren, in a statement last month, pledged cooperation with the US and Germany to support Ukraine with the Patriot defence system.&nbsp;

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He also added that a total of 65 Dutch soldiers will train Ukrainian soldiers on the system. The defence support to Ukraine was also vowed by Dutch PM Rutte at the time when he met US President Joe Biden at White House last month.&nbsp;

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As Ukraine is all set to mark one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte landed in Kyiv on Friday to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

As Ukraine is all set to mark one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte landed in Kyiv on Friday to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Netherlands prime minister is accompanied by Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation of the Netherlands, Liesje Schreinemacher. Rutte on Friday morning visited the Wall of Memory in Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital and laid a wreath to honour the fallen defenders of Ukraine. Also Read | The real reason why Microsoft-backed OpenAI developing customisable ChatGPT This is the second time the prime minister is visiting Ukraine, the last being in July last year when he visited Borodjanka, Boetsja, and Irpin, a suburb of Kyiv. In a joint conference with Rutte in Kyiv, Zelenskyy said that Ukraine has a "common understanding with the Netherlands that there should not be any taboo on the supply and support of weapons to our army, to our Ukraine, because it supports and protects our sovereignty." Earlier this month, some members of the Dutch Parliament visited the Ukrainian capital where they discussed the security situation with the government officials. Also Read | 'Why Poland?': Belarusian president invites Biden to Minsk instead, to 'end the war' Netherlands Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren, in a statement last month, pledged cooperation with the US and Germany to support Ukraine with the Patriot defence system. Watch | Japan: Rocket boosters fail to fire, resulting in cancellation of launch He also added that a total of 65 Dutch soldiers will train Ukrainian soldiers on the system. The defence support to Ukraine was also vowed by Dutch PM Rutte at the time when he met US President Joe Biden at White House last month. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Dutch PM visits Kyiv, meets Zelensky as Russia-Ukraine war nears one-year mark

In what is being seen as an effort to come to terms with its colonial past, the Dutch government has decided to issue an apology next week for the role they played in 250 years of slavery. This formal apology is set to be issued on December 19 and the government hopes it will redress how the Netherlands exploited more than 600,000 people who worked as slaves in its former colonies.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Mark Rutte at an interaction with the media at the Hague last week said that a “significant moment” on this issue will take place on December 19 this year.

This decision and the timing of the soon-to-be-made announcement by the Dutch government has, however, come under scrutiny, and groups from former Dutch colonies like Suriname in South America have criticised it, calling it whimsical and that they were not consulted about the date. They also feel that the decision was made in a haphazard and hurried manner. Instead, they feel that the apology should have been issued on July 1, 2023, a day that is significant because it marks the 150th anniversary of the Netherlands abolishing slavery in its former colonies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dutch-slavery-apology-plans-draw-flak-from-former-colonies-541421">Dutch slavery apology plans draw flak from former colonies</a>

Johan Roozer, chairman of the Surinamese National Commemoration of Slavery Remembrance Committee told reporters last week that Prime Minister Rutte probably wanted to issue the apology on December 19 because of the “changing political situation” in the Netherlands, with far-right Dutch political parties against the apology.

Local media reports say that the government also plans to spend 200 million euros on a fund promoting awareness about the colonial power's role in slavery and 27 million euros to open a slavery museum. Minister for Legal Protection Franc Weerwind confirmed a report by broadcaster RTL that the government planned to make a formal apology in December.

The decision follows the recommendation last year by an advisory panel that the government acknowledges that the slave trade amounted to crimes against humanity, and it could be set right by a formal apology. Weerwind told the newsagency ANP that the apology will "open the page to a shared future."

Watch |&nbsp;Netherlands PM Mark Rutte speaks up on EU-Qatar corruption scandal

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Going back to the past, the &nbsp;Dutch have a long association with slavery that first began in the 17th century when other former European colonial powers like Spain and Portugal were already involved in the transatlantic slave trade. Through the Dutch West India Company (WIC), the Dutch Empire began colonising large parts of land in South America and the Caribbean and bought slaves from Africa to work on the sugar, cotton, and coffee plantations of these lands.

A study by Leiden University pegs the time period as being “between 1612 and 1872, the Dutch operated from some 10 fortresses along the Gold Coast (now Ghana), from which slaves were shipped across the Atlantic”.

It also details how the Dutch role in the transatlantic slave trade involved exploiting about 550,000-600,000 Africans. Suriname and Guyana also became prominent markets from where the Dutch bought slaves.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nicaragua-cuts-diplomatic-ties-with-netherlands-calls-them-interventionist-521610">Nicaragua cuts diplomatic ties with Netherlands, calls them ‘interventionist’</a>

In 1863, the Netherlands abolished slavery, becoming one of the last countries to do so. But in places like Suriname, Dutch slavery ended only in 1873 since the law ruled that a 10-year transition period was mandatory, according to Leiden University.

However, discussions about issuing an apology for Dutch slavery gained momentum after the 2020 Black Lives Matter movement in the United States, according to Dutch-Moroccan politician Salima Belhaj, from the Democrats 66 (D66) political party in the Netherlands.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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In what is being seen as an effort to come to terms with its colonial past, the Dutch government has decided to issue an apology next week for the role they played in 250 years of slavery.

In what is being seen as an effort to come to terms with its colonial past, the Dutch government has decided to issue an apology next week for the role they played in 250 years of slavery. This formal apology is set to be issued on December 19 and the government hopes it will redress how the Netherlands exploited more than 600,000 people who worked as slaves in its former colonies. Prime Minister Mark Rutte at an interaction with the media at the Hague last week said that a “significant moment” on this issue will take place on December 19 this year. This decision and the timing of the soon-to-be-made announcement by the Dutch government has, however, come under scrutiny, and groups from former Dutch colonies like Suriname in South America have criticised it, calling it whimsical and that they were not consulted about the date. They also feel that the decision was made in a haphazard and hurried manner. Instead, they feel that the apology should have been issued on July 1, 2023, a day that is significant because it marks the 150th anniversary of the Netherlands abolishing slavery in its former colonies. Also read | Dutch slavery apology plans draw flak from former colonies Johan Roozer, chairman of the Surinamese National Commemoration of Slavery Remembrance Committee told reporters last week that Prime Minister Rutte probably wanted to issue the apology on December 19 because of the “changing political situation” in the Netherlands, with far-right Dutch political parties against the apology. Local media reports say that the government also plans to spend 200 million euros on a fund promoting awareness about the colonial power's role in slavery and 27 million euros to open a slavery museum. Minister for Legal Protection Franc Weerwind confirmed a report by broadcaster RTL that the government planned to make a formal apology in December. The decision follows the recommendation last year by an advisory panel that the government acknowledges that the slave trade amounted to crimes against humanity, and it could be set right by a formal apology. Weerwind told the newsagency ANP that the apology will "open the page to a shared future." Watch | Netherlands PM Mark Rutte speaks up on EU-Qatar corruption scandal Going back to the past, the Dutch have a long association with slavery that first began in the 17th century when other former European colonial powers like Spain and Portugal were already involved in the transatlantic slave trade. Through the Dutch West India Company (WIC), the Dutch Empire began colonising large parts of land in South America and the Caribbean and bought slaves from Africa to work on the sugar, cotton, and coffee plantations of these lands. A study by Leiden University pegs the time period as being “between 1612 and 1872, the Dutch operated from some 10 fortresses along the Gold Coast (now Ghana), from which slaves were shipped across the Atlantic”. It also details how the Dutch role in the transatlantic slave trade involved exploiting about 550,000-600,000 Africans. Suriname and Guyana also became prominent markets from where the Dutch bought slaves. Also read | Nicaragua cuts diplomatic ties with Netherlands, calls them ‘interventionist’ In 1863, the Netherlands abolished slavery, becoming one of the last countries to do so. But in places like Suriname, Dutch slavery ended only in 1873 since the law ruled that a 10-year transition period was mandatory, according to Leiden University. However, discussions about issuing an apology for Dutch slavery gained momentum after the 2020 Black Lives Matter movement in the United States, according to Dutch-Moroccan politician Salima Belhaj, from the Democrats 66 (D66) political party in the Netherlands. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE:

Dutch government to issue formal apology for role in colonial-era slavery

The Dutch foreign ministry issued an apology on Monday after a study claimed that institutional racism was widespread and that persons of ethnic backgrounds were repeatedly alluded to as "monkeys" and other derogatory terms.&nbsp;Employees of colour frequently felt cold-shouldered and neglected by white colleagues at the ministry, according to the independent research, which was commissioned in the aftermath of the Black Lives Matter movement.

They "were not often subjected to physical assault," according to the report, but they frequently endured "verbal hostility" when they overheard others disparaging others based on their skin colour, religion, or country of origin.

"A number of employees have said that people have been referred to as 'monkeys', 'bokitos', 'negroes' and 'Black Pete' because of their skin colour," the report said.

"African countries have been described by one employee as 'monkey countries.'"

In the Netherlands and Belgium, Black Pete, also known as Zwarte Piet, is a blackface holiday figure that usually goes with Saint Nicholas, whereas Bokito was a gorilla that escaped from the Rotterdam Zoo in 2007 and went on the rampage.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-charity-ceases-operations-over-safety-issue-after-founder-points-out-racism-at-buckingham-palace-541818/amp">UK charity ceases operations over safety concerns after founder points out racism at Buckingham Palace</a>

The report was "painful and combative," according to Dutch Foreign Minister Wopke Hoekstra.

It was observed that many of those surveyed felt "ignored and passed over," with embassy workers who were employed locally in particular feeling left out.

According to the study, the findings had "posed the query of whether institutional racism exists. This is the conclusion that we reach."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Although the Netherlands has long cultivated an image of itself as a liberal and cosmopolitan nation, it has only recently begun to face up to its past as a colonial and slave-trading power.</div>

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Dutch foreign ministry issued an apology on Monday after a study claimed that institutional racism was widespread and that persons of ethnic backgrounds were repeatedly alluded to as "monkeys" and other derogatory terms.

The Dutch foreign ministry issued an apology on Monday after a study claimed that institutional racism was widespread and that persons of ethnic backgrounds were repeatedly alluded to as "monkeys" and other derogatory terms. Employees of colour frequently felt cold-shouldered and neglected by white colleagues at the ministry, according to the independent research, which was commissioned in the aftermath of the Black Lives Matter movement. They "were not often subjected to physical assault," according to the report, but they frequently endured "verbal hostility" when they overheard others disparaging others based on their skin colour, religion, or country of origin. "A number of employees have said that people have been referred to as 'monkeys', 'bokitos', 'negroes' and 'Black Pete' because of their skin colour," the report said. "African countries have been described by one employee as 'monkey countries.'" In the Netherlands and Belgium, Black Pete, also known as Zwarte Piet, is a blackface holiday figure that usually goes with Saint Nicholas, whereas Bokito was a gorilla that escaped from the Rotterdam Zoo in 2007 and went on the rampage. Also read | UK charity ceases operations over safety concerns after founder points out racism at Buckingham Palace The report was "painful and combative," according to Dutch Foreign Minister Wopke Hoekstra. It was observed that many of those surveyed felt "ignored and passed over," with embassy workers who were employed locally in particular feeling left out. According to the study, the findings had "posed the query of whether institutional racism exists. This is the conclusion that we reach." Although the Netherlands has long cultivated an image of itself as a liberal and cosmopolitan nation, it has only recently begun to face up to its past as a colonial and slave-trading power. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Foreign ministry of the Netherlands issues apology for 'institutional racism'

Groups from former Dutch colonies have criticised the timing of possible apology for slavery from Dutch government. Though it is not explicitly clear whether it will be a formal apology from the government, Dutch PM Mark Rutte has said that there would be a "meaningful moment" on the subject on December 19.

His statement came after he held discussion with representative groups.

Groups from former colonies such as Suriname in South America and Caribbean countries have opposed the "arbitrary" December date, and said they were not consulted.

They want any apology to come on July 1, 2023, the 150th anniversary of the end of slavery in Dutch-held lands, which had funded an economic and cultural "Golden Age" of the Netherlands.

"You assume it will be done in a way that both parties are satisfied with, but that is absolutely not the case with us," said Johan Roozer, chairman of the Surinamese National Commemoration of Slavery Remembrance Committee.

Roozer said that Dutch PM wanted to stick to December 19 because of the "changing political situation" due to Dutch far-right parties rising in polls and opposing the apology.

Rutte said the government wanted to "make a success" of the date and that it was part of a "process". Rutte also hit out at the "extremely unfortunate" leaking by Dutch media of the date.

The Netherlands has been slowly coming to grips with the legacy of its colonial history and its role in 250 years of slavery in Suriname, Brazil, the Caribbean, Asia and South Africa.

The city of Amsterdam has formally apologised for its role in the slave trade, while the city's Rijksmuseum last year held the first exhibition confronting the issue.

Slavery helped fund the Dutch "Golden Age" that built Amsterdam's famed canal houses and produced the art that now fills the Rijksmuseum and other galleries.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Groups from former Dutch colonies have criticised the timing of possible apology for slavery from Dutch government. Though it is not explicitly clear whether it will be a formal apology from the government, Dutch PM Mark Rutte has said that there would be a "meaningful moment" on the subject on December 19.

Groups from former Dutch colonies have criticised the timing of possible apology for slavery from Dutch government. Though it is not explicitly clear whether it will be a formal apology from the government, Dutch PM Mark Rutte has said that there would be a "meaningful moment" on the subject on December 19. His statement came after he held discussion with representative groups. Groups from former colonies such as Suriname in South America and Caribbean countries have opposed the "arbitrary" December date, and said they were not consulted. They want any apology to come on July 1, 2023, the 150th anniversary of the end of slavery in Dutch-held lands, which had funded an economic and cultural "Golden Age" of the Netherlands. "You assume it will be done in a way that both parties are satisfied with, but that is absolutely not the case with us," said Johan Roozer, chairman of the Surinamese National Commemoration of Slavery Remembrance Committee. Roozer said that Dutch PM wanted to stick to December 19 because of the "changing political situation" due to Dutch far-right parties rising in polls and opposing the apology. Rutte said the government wanted to "make a success" of the date and that it was part of a "process". Rutte also hit out at the "extremely unfortunate" leaking by Dutch media of the date. The Netherlands has been slowly coming to grips with the legacy of its colonial history and its role in 250 years of slavery in Suriname, Brazil, the Caribbean, Asia and South Africa. The city of Amsterdam has formally apologised for its role in the slave trade, while the city's Rijksmuseum last year held the first exhibition confronting the issue. Slavery helped fund the Dutch "Golden Age" that built Amsterdam's famed canal houses and produced the art that now fills the Rijksmuseum and other galleries. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Dutch slavery apology plans draw flak from former colonies

On the 17th of July, 2014, a Malaysian Airline flight was shot down over Eastern Ukraine. There were 298 people on board, including 80 children, all died. A Dutch court will now be delivering its verdict. There are 4 accused- 3 Russian and one Ukrainian. Priyanka Sharma beings you a report.

Gravitas | MH17: Dutch court set to deliver its verdict

Team India started their T20 World Cup 2022 edition with a memorable win over arch-rivals Pakistan at the iconic MCG, Melbourne on Sunday (October 23). Having won the toss and opting to bowl first, India rode on three-fers from Arshdeep Singh and all-rounder Hardik Pandya to restrict Pakistan to 159 for 8.

In reply, India were tottering at 31 for 4, losing their skipper Rohit Sharma (4) and vice-captain KL Rahul for cheap. However, Virat Kohli produced a masterclass, 82 not out off 53 balls, and was well-supported by Hardik (40) to take India past the finish line courtesy of a four from R Ashwin's blade on the last ball of the contest. Now, the action shifts to the Netherlands face-off as India will aim to keep their winning streak alive.

India will take on the Dutch line-up, at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Sydney. This will be the first face-off between both sides in the format. So far, India have faced Netherlands twice in ODI World Cup -- in 2003 and 2011. Hence, a new challenge will be infront of the Indian team when they take the field versus the Netherlands line-up.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2022-india-vs-netherlands-live-cricket-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-epic-face-off-528591">T20 World Cup 2022, India vs Netherlands, live cricket streaming: When and where to watch epic face-off?</a>

Given Ireland stunned 2010 winners England on Wednesday (October 26), India won't take the Netherlands lightly. With no experience of playing them whatsoever in the format, India will start cautiously before trying to explode. As per the conditions, a used pitch will be on offer for the India-Dutch encounter, given it is the second encounter of the day (after South Africa vs Bangladesh). A similar sort of pitch can be expected, as it was in the Super 12 opener featuring Australia and New Zealand, but with lesser bounce. Thus, slower bowlers can come to play. Toss will be crucial and the captains can look to bat first, on a surface which might get slower. However, with rain forecast, bowling first is also an option.

Predicting India's XI for the Netherlands face-off:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh

Team India started their T20 World Cup 2022 edition with a memorable win over arch-rivals Pakistan at the iconic MCG, Melbourne on Sunday (October 23). Having won the toss and opting to bowl first, India rode on three-fers from Arshdeep Singh and all-rounder Hardik Pandya to restrict Pakistan to 159 for 8.

Team India started their T20 World Cup 2022 edition with a memorable win over arch-rivals Pakistan at the iconic MCG, Melbourne on Sunday (October 23). Having won the toss and opting to bowl first, India rode on three-fers from Arshdeep Singh and all-rounder Hardik Pandya to restrict Pakistan to 159 for 8. In reply, India were tottering at 31 for 4, losing their skipper Rohit Sharma (4) and vice-captain KL Rahul for cheap. However, Virat Kohli produced a masterclass, 82 not out off 53 balls, and was well-supported by Hardik (40) to take India past the finish line courtesy of a four from R Ashwin's blade on the last ball of the contest. Now, the action shifts to the Netherlands face-off as India will aim to keep their winning streak alive. India will take on the Dutch line-up, at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Sydney. This will be the first face-off between both sides in the format. So far, India have faced Netherlands twice in ODI World Cup -- in 2003 and 2011. Hence, a new challenge will be infront of the Indian team when they take the field versus the Netherlands line-up. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2022, India vs Netherlands, live cricket streaming: When and where to watch epic face-off? Given Ireland stunned 2010 winners England on Wednesday (October 26), India won't take the Netherlands lightly. With no experience of playing them whatsoever in the format, India will start cautiously before trying to explode. As per the conditions, a used pitch will be on offer for the India-Dutch encounter, given it is the second encounter of the day (after South Africa vs Bangladesh). A similar sort of pitch can be expected, as it was in the Super 12 opener featuring Australia and New Zealand, but with lesser bounce. Thus, slower bowlers can come to play. Toss will be crucial and the captains can look to bat first, on a surface which might get slower. However, with rain forecast, bowling first is also an option. Predicting India's XI for the Netherlands face-off: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh

India vs Netherlands, T20 WC 2022: Predicting Men in Blue's likely XI for crucial tie

The Netherlands on Wednesday announced its withdrawal from a recently- negotiated 52-nation deal on fossil fuels over climate change concerns.

The deal was initially signed in 1994 and included 52 nations from Central Asia and Europe. Its aim was to protect energy investments in volatile ex-Soviet countries.&nbsp;A compromise deal was struck in June to update the decades-old Energy Charter Treaty, which governed cross-border energy trading and investment.&nbsp;The European Union recently pressed for changes to the agreement to prohibit legal action from investors and businesses which could jeopardise bold climate targets.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Climate change creates new crisis for Bangladesh

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The compromise agreement, reached in June after two years of negotiations, establishes a 10-year phase-out period for protections on current investments and permits the exclusion of future fossil fuel investments from protections. It was set to come into force in November, pending any objections from the signatories.&nbsp;

Climate groups have criticised the update's flaws and warned that they would jeopardise efforts to slow global warming.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wwii-shipwreck-still-polluting-north-sea-ocean-floor-80-years-after-going-down-526704" hreflang="en">WWII shipwreck still polluting North Sea ocean floor 80 years after going down</a>

On Tuesday, Rob Jetten, the dutch environment and energy minister told the nation's parliament about the nation's withdrawal.

Talking to AFP, a spokesperson for his ministry said that "the minister indicated that the negotiated result cannot be reconciled with the Paris accord" on climate change.&nbsp;They further revealed that the official withdrawal date hasn't been set.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Netherlands on Wednesday announced its withdrawal from a recently- negotiated 52-nation deal on fossil fuels over climate change concerns. The deal was initially signed in 1994 and included 52 nations from Central Asia and Europe.

The Netherlands on Wednesday announced its withdrawal from a recently- negotiated 52-nation deal on fossil fuels over climate change concerns. The deal was initially signed in 1994 and included 52 nations from Central Asia and Europe. Its aim was to protect energy investments in volatile ex-Soviet countries. A compromise deal was struck in June to update the decades-old Energy Charter Treaty, which governed cross-border energy trading and investment. The European Union recently pressed for changes to the agreement to prohibit legal action from investors and businesses which could jeopardise bold climate targets. Watch | WION Climate Tracker: Climate change creates new crisis for Bangladesh The compromise agreement, reached in June after two years of negotiations, establishes a 10-year phase-out period for protections on current investments and permits the exclusion of future fossil fuel investments from protections. It was set to come into force in November, pending any objections from the signatories. Climate groups have criticised the update's flaws and warned that they would jeopardise efforts to slow global warming. Also read | WWII shipwreck still polluting North Sea ocean floor 80 years after going down On Tuesday, Rob Jetten, the dutch environment and energy minister told the nation's parliament about the nation's withdrawal. Talking to AFP, a spokesperson for his ministry said that "the minister indicated that the negotiated result cannot be reconciled with the Paris accord" on climate change. They further revealed that the official withdrawal date hasn't been set. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Netherlands to quit multi-nation fossil deal over climate change concerns

Haarlem, a beautiful Dutch city known for its outlying tulip fields, art museums and hofjes, will become the first in the world to ban meat adverts from public spaces to discourage consumption, Dutch News.nl reported.&nbsp;

Haarlem is pushing forward to reduce consumption and greenhouse gas emissions and it will prohibit the adverts from 2024 after the meat was added to a list of products deemed to contribute to the climate crisis. The ban was agreed upon last year and it was made official last week.&nbsp;

The report said that the advertisements will not be allowed on city buses, shelters and screens in public spaces.&nbsp;

Although, the move has led to&nbsp;complaints from the meat sector that the municipality is "going too far in telling people what's best for them".&nbsp;

The report mentioned that Amsterdam, Leiden and The Hague have already banned ads for flying, petrol-powered cars and the fossil fuel industry.&nbsp;

Haarlem GroenLinks councillor Ziggy Klazes, who tabled the motion, told the Dutch daily newspaper Trouw, "Meat is just as harmful to the environment. We can’t tell people there's a climate crisis and encourage them to buy products that are part of the cause."&nbsp;

Despite party leader Wopke Hoekstra's recent support for protesting farmers, the motion was supported by the Christian Democrats (CDA), the report mentioned.&nbsp;

CDA councillor Ron Dreijer told the paper, "We are more sustainable than the national party."&nbsp;

In response to the move, the meat sector said it was unhappy with the ban. The spokesperson for industry body Centrale Organisatie voor de Vleessector, told the paper, "The authorities are going too far in telling people what's best for them."&nbsp;

Notably, the meat sector came up with 'Nederland Vleesland', a campaign to promote meat eating as "a matter of taste" as well as an economic benefit.&nbsp;

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Haarlem, a beautiful Dutch city known for its outlying tulip fields, art museums and hofjes, will become the first in the world to ban meat adverts from public spaces to discourage consumption, Dutch News.

Haarlem, a beautiful Dutch city known for its outlying tulip fields, art museums and hofjes, will become the first in the world to ban meat adverts from public spaces to discourage consumption, Dutch News.nl reported. Haarlem is pushing forward to reduce consumption and greenhouse gas emissions and it will prohibit the adverts from 2024 after the meat was added to a list of products deemed to contribute to the climate crisis. The ban was agreed upon last year and it was made official last week. The report said that the advertisements will not be allowed on city buses, shelters and screens in public spaces. Although, the move has led to complaints from the meat sector that the municipality is "going too far in telling people what's best for them". The report mentioned that Amsterdam, Leiden and The Hague have already banned ads for flying, petrol-powered cars and the fossil fuel industry. Haarlem GroenLinks councillor Ziggy Klazes, who tabled the motion, told the Dutch daily newspaper Trouw, "Meat is just as harmful to the environment. We can’t tell people there's a climate crisis and encourage them to buy products that are part of the cause." Despite party leader Wopke Hoekstra's recent support for protesting farmers, the motion was supported by the Christian Democrats (CDA), the report mentioned. CDA councillor Ron Dreijer told the paper, "We are more sustainable than the national party." In response to the move, the meat sector said it was unhappy with the ban. The spokesperson for industry body Centrale Organisatie voor de Vleessector, told the paper, "The authorities are going too far in telling people what's best for them." Notably, the meat sector came up with 'Nederland Vleesland', a campaign to promote meat eating as "a matter of taste" as well as an economic benefit. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Climate crisis: Dutch city becomes the first in the world to ban meat adverts at public spaces

As per reports, the Dutch are planning to house 3,000 refugees on cruise ships from September. Experts, NGOs have called Dutch government's plan 'absurd'.

Netherlands to house refugees on cruise ships from September

Suspected armed robbers raided one of Europe's biggest art fairs in the Dutch city of Maastricht in broad daylight on Tuesday, police said, with a video showing men smashing a display case with a sledgehammer, as reported by AFP.

Police said they pulled over a car and arrested two Belgians in their twenties after the four smartly dressed thieves held up the TEFAF (The European Fine Art Fair) in the southern city of Maastricht.

Dramatic social media images showed the robbers threatening people with what appeared to be handguns before running off with an undisclosed amount of what police called "loot".

Visitor Jos Stassen told Dutch public broadcaster NOS he had gone to the exhibition on Tuesday to look at the art in peace.

"I suddenly heard a lot of noise and I turned around and suddenly saw those men," he said.

"One started beating and the others kept people away, scared everyone. I also saw a weapon.

"It went very fast and it lasted a very short time but I'm still shaking a little bit."

The venue was evacuated but visitors were eventually let back into the fair, which draws tens of thousands of people over several days. No one was hurt, police said.

"A stall was raided, they fled and we started the search," Wim Coenen, a spokesman for Limburg province police, told AFP. "There were four suspects, two were arrested."

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Dutch media said the display case contained diamond jewellery and other items from London jeweller Symbolic and Chase. There was no comment from the firm.

Police confirmed in a statement that "jewellery was stolen. Additional details about the loot are not being provided at this time."

The TEFAF fair is one of the biggest in Europe and features hundreds of works, including a 17th-century drawing by a Dutch Old Master on sale for one million euros.

(with inputs from agencies) 
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Suspected armed robbers raided one of Europe's biggest art fairs in the Dutch city of Maastricht in broad daylight on Tuesday, police said, with a video showing men smashing a display case with a sledgehammer, as reported by AFP.

Suspected armed robbers raided one of Europe's biggest art fairs in the Dutch city of Maastricht in broad daylight on Tuesday, police said, with a video showing men smashing a display case with a sledgehammer, as reported by AFP. Police said they pulled over a car and arrested two Belgians in their twenties after the four smartly dressed thieves held up the TEFAF (The European Fine Art Fair) in the southern city of Maastricht. Dramatic social media images showed the robbers threatening people with what appeared to be handguns before running off with an undisclosed amount of what police called "loot". Visitor Jos Stassen told Dutch public broadcaster NOS he had gone to the exhibition on Tuesday to look at the art in peace. "I suddenly heard a lot of noise and I turned around and suddenly saw those men," he said. "One started beating and the others kept people away, scared everyone. I also saw a weapon. "It went very fast and it lasted a very short time but I'm still shaking a little bit." The venue was evacuated but visitors were eventually let back into the fair, which draws tens of thousands of people over several days. No one was hurt, police said. "A stall was raided, they fled and we started the search," Wim Coenen, a spokesman for Limburg province police, told AFP. "There were four suspects, two were arrested." Also Read: Need rescue on the sea? This Spanish city will charge you for it Dutch media said the display case contained diamond jewellery and other items from London jeweller Symbolic and Chase. There was no comment from the firm. Police confirmed in a statement that "jewellery was stolen. Additional details about the loot are not being provided at this time." The TEFAF fair is one of the biggest in Europe and features hundreds of works, including a 17th-century drawing by a Dutch Old Master on sale for one million euros. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Armed robbers steal jewels at 'The European Fine Art Fair'

A rare tornado ripped through the western Dutch city of Zierikzee, leaving one person dead and at least ten injured. The storm tore through the roofs and pulled down trees, leaving a trail of destruction.

Rare tornado leaves one dead in Netherlands

A dutch company, Lightyear, is launching the world’s first production-ready solar car that will hit the roads later this year promising months of charge-less driving in summer. The Lightyear 0 will have curved solar panels in its roof, hood and trunk that top up the electric battery as it drives. The first delivery in Europe could be as early as November.

Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder Lex Hoefsloot said at the reveal of the Lightyear 0 model, “Electric cars are a step in the right direction, but they are dependent on the grid, which is still dependent on mostly fossil fuel energy. Adding a new source, the sun, adds certainty that you will always have that charge and you will have to charge a lot less often.”

The interior of the vehicle is vegan and eco-friendly, featuring plant-based leather, fabrics made from recycled PET bottles and wooden deco elements from sustainably-restructured rattan palm.

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When asked about the battery, Hoefsloot says, "The powertrain is the most efficient in the world," adding that the car's aerodynamic shape and four in-wheel motors enable a smaller battery to provide the same range.

That means "the whole car is lighter, and you get into this positive feedback cycle where everything can become lighter as well. That's how we've been able to get to 1,575 kilograms. If you look at other cars that offer a similar range, they're all about 40% heavier," he added.

The car has a maximum speed of just 100 mph, while its 0 to 100 mph time is 10 seconds. The company will launch 946 models, one of them costing around €250,000 ($262,000).

(with inputs from agencies)

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A dutch company, Lightyear, is launching the world’s first production-ready solar car that will hit the roads later this year promising months of charge-less driving in summer.

A dutch company, Lightyear, is launching the world’s first production-ready solar car that will hit the roads later this year promising months of charge-less driving in summer. The Lightyear 0 will have curved solar panels in its roof, hood and trunk that top up the electric battery as it drives. The first delivery in Europe could be as early as November. Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder Lex Hoefsloot said at the reveal of the Lightyear 0 model, “Electric cars are a step in the right direction, but they are dependent on the grid, which is still dependent on mostly fossil fuel energy. Adding a new source, the sun, adds certainty that you will always have that charge and you will have to charge a lot less often.” The interior of the vehicle is vegan and eco-friendly, featuring plant-based leather, fabrics made from recycled PET bottles and wooden deco elements from sustainably-restructured rattan palm. Also Read: Covid 19: Thailand forgoes foreign tourist registration, drops mask rule When asked about the battery, Hoefsloot says, "The powertrain is the most efficient in the world," adding that the car's aerodynamic shape and four in-wheel motors enable a smaller battery to provide the same range. That means "the whole car is lighter, and you get into this positive feedback cycle where everything can become lighter as well. That's how we've been able to get to 1,575 kilograms. If you look at other cars that offer a similar range, they're all about 40% heavier," he added. The car has a maximum speed of just 100 mph, while its 0 to 100 mph time is 10 seconds. The company will launch 946 models, one of them costing around €250,000 ($262,000). (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Dutch company Lightyear to launch world’s first solar car by the end of 2022

The Dutch intelligence service said on Thursday it had stopped a Russian spy claiming to be a 33-year-old Brazilian citizen named Viktor Muller Ferreira, who was posing as an intern from accessing the Hague-based International Criminal Court, which is investigating war crimes in Ukraine.

The Dutch named him Sergey Vladimirovich Cherkasov. The man used a Brazilian cover identity but was unmasked as a member of Russia's GRU military intelligence and refused entry in April as a "threat to national security", the AIVD (General Intelligence and Security Service) said in a statement.

"The AIVD prevented a Russian intelligence officer from gaining access as an intern to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague," the AIVD statement said.

"The person in question works for the Russian Military Intelligence Service GRU, but he used a Brazilian cover identity to travel from Brazil to the Netherlands," AVID added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-ukraine-bids-farewell-to-its-war-heroes-488400">In pics: Ukraine bids farewell to its war heroes</a>

Covert access to the Hague-based ICC would be "highly valuable to the Russian intelligence services" as it is probing both Ukraine and the Russian war in Georgia in 2008. The illegal was supposed to commence an internship with the ICC, which would mean he would have access to the ICC's building and systems.

Had the Russian spy succeeded "he would have been able to gather intelligence there and to look for (or recruit) sources, and arrange to have access to the ICC’s digital systems, he might also have been able to influence criminal proceedings of the ICC," it added.

The Dutch agency said it "holds him to be a threat to national security" and alerted the immigration services before his arrival. "On these grounds, the intelligence officer was refused entry into the Netherlands in April and declared unacceptable. He was sent back to Brazil on the first flight out," it said.

The ICC has also been informed of this case. There was no immediate response from the ICC, which opened a probe into potential war crimes in Ukraine shortly after Russia's invasion on February 24.

(with inputs from agencies)

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The Dutch intelligence service said on Thursday it had stopped a Russian spy claiming to be a 33-year-old Brazilian citizen named Viktor Muller Ferreira, who was posing as an intern from accessing the Hague-based International Criminal Court, which is investigating war crimes in Ukraine.

The Dutch intelligence service said on Thursday it had stopped a Russian spy claiming to be a 33-year-old Brazilian citizen named Viktor Muller Ferreira, who was posing as an intern from accessing the Hague-based International Criminal Court, which is investigating war crimes in Ukraine. The Dutch named him Sergey Vladimirovich Cherkasov. The man used a Brazilian cover identity but was unmasked as a member of Russia's GRU military intelligence and refused entry in April as a "threat to national security", the AIVD (General Intelligence and Security Service) said in a statement. "The AIVD prevented a Russian intelligence officer from gaining access as an intern to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague," the AIVD statement said. "The person in question works for the Russian Military Intelligence Service GRU, but he used a Brazilian cover identity to travel from Brazil to the Netherlands," AVID added. Also Read: In pics: Ukraine bids farewell to its war heroes Covert access to the Hague-based ICC would be "highly valuable to the Russian intelligence services" as it is probing both Ukraine and the Russian war in Georgia in 2008. The illegal was supposed to commence an internship with the ICC, which would mean he would have access to the ICC's building and systems. Had the Russian spy succeeded "he would have been able to gather intelligence there and to look for (or recruit) sources, and arrange to have access to the ICC’s digital systems, he might also have been able to influence criminal proceedings of the ICC," it added. The Dutch agency said it "holds him to be a threat to national security" and alerted the immigration services before his arrival. "On these grounds, the intelligence officer was refused entry into the Netherlands in April and declared unacceptable. He was sent back to Brazil on the first flight out," it said. The ICC has also been informed of this case. There was no immediate response from the ICC, which opened a probe into potential war crimes in Ukraine shortly after Russia's invasion on February 24. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Dutch intelligence stops Russian spy from entering ICC investigating war crimes in Ukraine

Golden butterflies adorn the walls of the Netherland's only&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;expertise centre, put up in remembrance of thousands of patients who have chosen to die with dignity over the past two decades.

Situated in a leafy upmarket suburb of The Hague, the&nbsp;Euthanasia&nbsp;Expertise Centre is the only one of its kind, giving information, assisting medical doctors and providing&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;as end-of-life care, which was legalised in a world first in the Netherlands on April 1, 2002.&nbsp;

Belgium soon followed later that year and Spain last year became the sixth country to adopt&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;-- the act of intentionally ending a life to relieve a person's suffering, for instance through a lethal injection given by a doctor.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/right-to-die-italy-court-refuses-to-allow-euthanasia-referendum-453723">'Right-to-die': Italy court refuses to allow euthanasia referendum</a>

The number of people seeking&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;is growing in the Netherlands, with some 7,666 last year, up by more than 10 percent from the year before, according to official figures.

The vast majority are aged 60 or over, suffering from cancer or other terminal illnesses.

"Twenty years ago, when the law was passed it was known, but certainly not used as often as today," said Sonja Kersten, director of the&nbsp;Euthanasia&nbsp;Expertise Centre.

The reasons are many: an ageing Dutch population; the fact that&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;is no longer a taboo subject and society has opened up to the issue.

"Dying with dignity is a debate that's growing within Dutch society, which is quite open to the subject," Kersten said.

Existential question

Euthanasia&nbsp;is only authorised in a few countries around the world.&nbsp;

In Belgium, which will mark two decades of&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;in May, some 40 French citizens also benefitted from the practice last year.

The decision to ask for&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;as end-of-life care remains a "difficult and&nbsp;existential question", Kersten said.

"It's neither a patient's right, nor a doctor's duty," to have&nbsp;euthanasia, she added.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-euthanasia-and-marijuana-new-zealand-targets-smoking-378060">&nbsp;After euthanasia and marijuana, New Zealand targets smoking</a>

In the Netherlands,&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;can only be carried out under strict conditions set down in Dutch law.

Children aged up to 16 need the permission of their parents and guardians, while parents must be involved in the process for children aged 16 and 17. From 18, any Dutch citizen may ask for assisted death.&nbsp;

In all cases, the patient must have "unbearable suffering with no prospect of improvement" and must have requested to die in a way that is "voluntary, well considered and with full conviction".&nbsp;

Other criteria apply as well, like the absence of a reasonable alternative to the patient's situation.

Doctors, too, cannot be forced to perform&nbsp;euthanasia.

Die at home

The&nbsp;Euthanasia&nbsp;Expertise Centre helps doctors through the process by sharing knowledge and providing guidance. At the same time, the centre helps patients whose doctors refuse to help them.

The centre, established in 2012, is a foundation but patient care is reimbursed by health insurers.

It first positioned itself as the "Levenseindekliniek", Dutch for "End-of-life clinic", offering on-site&nbsp;euthanasia.

But even before the start, it became apparent that most patients preferred to die at home, Kersten said.

Today, the centre can call upon a network of about 140 doctors and nurses around the country, employed by the&nbsp;Euthanasia&nbsp;Expertise Centre.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/countries-where-euthanasia-assisted-suicide-is-legal-281943">Countries where euthanasia, assisted suicide is legal</a>

Most&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;requests, however, are handled by the patient's own physician, with whom they already have a relationship of trust.&nbsp;Last year, this was the case for 80 percent of euthanasias performed in the country.

"There are however still doctors in the Netherlands who are opposed to&nbsp;euthanasia," said Kersten, adding "they have every right".

The centre's medical team itself provided&nbsp;euthanasia&nbsp;to nearly 900 people in 2020, out of nearly 3,000 requests, with figures on the rise.

About 20 percent had dementia or psychiatric disorders.

The Netherlands' highest court ruled in 2020 that doctors can euthanise patients with severe dementia without the fear of prosecution.&nbsp;

It concerns patients with advanced dementia who are no longer mentally competent, but who previously had a clear request for euthanasia.

The decision followed a landmark case, not related to the Expertise centre, in which a doctor was acquitted of providing euthanasia on a woman in 2016 with severe Alzheimer's disease, who earlier requested the procedure.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Can a person end their own life to escape pain?

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Golden butterflies adorn the walls of the Netherland's only euthanasia expertise centre, put up in remembrance of thousands of patients who have chosen to die with dignity over the past two decades.

Golden butterflies adorn the walls of the Netherland's only euthanasia expertise centre, put up in remembrance of thousands of patients who have chosen to die with dignity over the past two decades. Situated in a leafy upmarket suburb of The Hague, the Euthanasia Expertise Centre is the only one of its kind, giving information, assisting medical doctors and providing euthanasia as end-of-life care, which was legalised in a world first in the Netherlands on April 1, 2002. Belgium soon followed later that year and Spain last year became the sixth country to adopt euthanasia -- the act of intentionally ending a life to relieve a person's suffering, for instance through a lethal injection given by a doctor. Also read | 'Right-to-die': Italy court refuses to allow euthanasia referendum The number of people seeking euthanasia is growing in the Netherlands, with some 7,666 last year, up by more than 10 percent from the year before, according to official figures. The vast majority are aged 60 or over, suffering from cancer or other terminal illnesses. "Twenty years ago, when the law was passed it was known, but certainly not used as often as today," said Sonja Kersten, director of the Euthanasia Expertise Centre. The reasons are many: an ageing Dutch population; the fact that euthanasia is no longer a taboo subject and society has opened up to the issue. "Dying with dignity is a debate that's growing within Dutch society, which is quite open to the subject," Kersten said. Existential question Euthanasia is only authorised in a few countries around the world. In Belgium, which will mark two decades of euthanasia in May, some 40 French citizens also benefitted from the practice last year. The decision to ask for euthanasia as end-of-life care remains a "difficult and existential question", Kersten said. "It's neither a patient's right, nor a doctor's duty," to have euthanasia, she added. Also read | After euthanasia and marijuana, New Zealand targets smoking In the Netherlands, euthanasia can only be carried out under strict conditions set down in Dutch law. Children aged up to 16 need the permission of their parents and guardians, while parents must be involved in the process for children aged 16 and 17. From 18, any Dutch citizen may ask for assisted death. In all cases, the patient must have "unbearable suffering with no prospect of improvement" and must have requested to die in a way that is "voluntary, well considered and with full conviction". Other criteria apply as well, like the absence of a reasonable alternative to the patient's situation. Doctors, too, cannot be forced to perform euthanasia. Die at home The Euthanasia Expertise Centre helps doctors through the process by sharing knowledge and providing guidance. At the same time, the centre helps patients whose doctors refuse to help them. The centre, established in 2012, is a foundation but patient care is reimbursed by health insurers. It first positioned itself as the "Levenseindekliniek", Dutch for "End-of-life clinic", offering on-site euthanasia. But even before the start, it became apparent that most patients preferred to die at home, Kersten said. Today, the centre can call upon a network of about 140 doctors and nurses around the country, employed by the Euthanasia Expertise Centre. Also read | Countries where euthanasia, assisted suicide is legal Most euthanasia requests, however, are handled by the patient's own physician, with whom they already have a relationship of trust. Last year, this was the case for 80 percent of euthanasias performed in the country. "There are however still doctors in the Netherlands who are opposed to euthanasia," said Kersten, adding "they have every right". The centre's medical team itself provided euthanasia to nearly 900 people in 2020, out of nearly 3,000 requests, with figures on the rise. About 20 percent had dementia or psychiatric disorders. The Netherlands' highest court ruled in 2020 that doctors can euthanise patients with severe dementia without the fear of prosecution. It concerns patients with advanced dementia who are no longer mentally competent, but who previously had a clear request for euthanasia. The decision followed a landmark case, not related to the Expertise centre, in which a doctor was acquitted of providing euthanasia on a woman in 2016 with severe Alzheimer's disease, who earlier requested the procedure. Watch | Gravitas: Can a person end their own life to escape pain?

'Dying with dignity': Dutch mark 20 years of euthanasia

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