This is how you can demonstrate in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, anyone can demonstrate, even if you do not yet have Dutch citizenship. However, the government can set conditions on how you demonstrate. This article explains how demonstrating in the Netherlands works.
You can protest peacefully in several ways
In the Netherlands, you can demonstrate in various ways. These protests are usually in public. You can also demonstrate in writing.
People who take part in demonstrations may not use violence. Nor may demonstrators express hatred about other people, their origin, race or religion. Discrimination is not allowed and nor are hatred and violence. The authorities may stop the demonstration if any of these things happen.
Below are the different ways you can demonstrate:
Public demonstrations
Written protest: petitions
Some ways of demonstrating are liable to punishment
If you demonstrate, you must report this to the municipality
If you want to demonstrate, you must notify the municipality in which you are demonstrating in time. You notify the
For example, the mayor can change the location of the demonstration. She or he may also change the time of the demonstration, for safety reasons. She or he may not change the content of the demonstration. If you do not report the demonstration, the mayor can stop the demonstration. The municipality can intervene if:
The health and safety of protesters or passers-by is at risk.
The demonstration causes problems in traffic.
Unrest, violence or criminal offences are expected.
The Dutch government must protect protesters
The Dutch government must protect participants of a demonstration. For example, if there are opponents or if there are hateful reactions to the demonstration. That is why police are present at every demonstration. The police make sure the demonstration goes safely and peacefully. So they are there for your safety.