With Juliet, a familiar and strong voice remains in the council. And with Pim, new energy joins: fresh, driven, and full of ideas. We are incredibly happy about that!

And there’s more: Volt is now also represented in the city district councils. In every district where we ran, we secured a seat: in Centrum with Anna Klapwijk, in Oost with Mark Croes, in West with Max Fleer, and in Zuid with Thijs Uildriks.

In the coming years, we will work with full energy towards a city where you can once again afford to live, where you feel safe, and where more Amsterdammers feel connected to their neighbourhood and their city, especially for the next generation.

This is only the beginning. 💜

Over the past years, Itay Garmy has dedicated himself wholeheartedly in the council for Volt Amsterdam. Always with an eye for the city, but above all for the people in it. For connection, especially in moments of tension. For dialogue, even when it was difficult.

He did this in his own way: with calmness, with sharpness, and with emotion. But above all, with genuine interest in others. Itay showed that politics is not only about positions, but about people trying to understand one another.

His commitment to encounter, dialogue, and human rights has impacted not only the council, but the entire city. He brought together people who might otherwise never have met. That is exactly what we need.

We are saying goodbye to a deeply committed council member. Someone who kept working toward a shared future, even when it wasn’t easy.

Dear Itay, thank you for everything you have meant to us and to Amsterdam. We will miss you greatly in the council, but above all we are grateful that you remain part of Volt and a friend.

With love,
your Volt colleagues 💜

The city council is the highest governing body within the municipality. It decides on the most important topics in Amsterdam, such as tourist taxes and the construction of new houses. Of all political representatives, the 45 councillors are perhaps the closest to citizens, considering they constantly keep in touch with Amsterdammers to understand what is going on in the city.  

Do you want to know if you’re eligible to vote? We collected all the information for you here.

So why are these elections also relevant for international people? The answer might sound simple: municipal policies directly impact the lives of everyone living in Amsterdam. Let’s look at a few examples:

• Public transport

• Safety in public spaces

• Garbage collection

• Parks and green spaces

• Traffic rules such as speed limits

• Support for the cultural sector

Major national and even international issues can be tackled on a local level as well. The recent geopolitical developments have shown that a strong European mindset is needed in all democratic organisations and institutions. Since 2016, Volt has been pushing for a strong, sustainable and digital Europe that is safe for everyone. Solutions that are relevant here are the independence from US-based tech companies, protecting human rights, accommodation for refugees, the improvement of international train connections, fighting climate change and in parallel getting Amsterdam ready for the negative impacts of climate change. 

The municipality is also in charge of providing information and assistance to new international residents and newcomers. This is done for example by facilitating language courses, providing practical information about where to live, financial matters and the education system for your children.

At Volt, we see that living in Amsterdam is getting more and more difficult for many. The city keeps getting busier, more expensive and more uncertain. We believe that Amsterdam can once again be a city where you can build your future. We cannot wait for solutions for urgent problems like the housing crisis, the climate crisis and growing inequality of opportunity. Amsterdam deserves politics that restores the human scale and learns from what works in Vienna, Copenhagen or Barcelona. Politics where progress and connection take center stage. Find here more information about how we plan to take Amsterdam into the future.

Do you want to know if you’re eligible to vote? We collected all the information for you here.

Verena Kitowski is running for Volt in the City Council elections and in the district committee West. She is German by passport, European at heart and Amsterdam has become her home in the last seven years. She is an expert on sustainability, consumer rights and circular economy. In the city council of Amsterdam, she wants to tackle local issues that affect internationals as well as Dutch residents. This includes all topics that contribute to a more open society and fighting ‘bubbles’, such as language barriers, anonymous neighbourhoods, housing and community building.

Read our full election program

The local election on March 18 in Amsterdam concerns the vote for the city council (gemeenteraad) and the district committee (stadsdeelcomissie). This election happens every four years and your vote directly impacts who is elected for the council and committees.  The city council and district committee decide on many important topics, such as housing, social welfare and public transport. That means a vote on March 18 will help decide what day to day life in Amsterdam will look like the upcoming years!

To be eligible to vote in the city council election Amsterdam on March 18, you must be

• 18 years of age or older

• an EU citizen and were registered in Amsterdam before January 31, 2026

• a non-EU citizen living in the Netherlands without interruption for more than 5 years and registered in Amsterdam before January 31, 2026

For the district committee similar rules apply, but you are allowed to vote already from the age of 16 and non-EU citizens only need to have been living for two years in the Netherlands!

You do not have to sign up to vote in the Netherlands. If you are eligible based on above criteria, you will receive a personal voting pass (in Dutch called stempas) via postal mail at the beginning of March (at least 14 days before the election). This is the ultimate confirmation that you have a vote and a voice in this election. 

If for some reason you don’t receive your personal voting pass, we advise you to visit the closest city office (Stadsloket) where you can inquire about your case.

How can I vote on election day?

Bring your personal voting pass (Stempas) and a valid ID (passport, residence permit, EU ID card or EU driving license) to the closest polling station. You can find the overview of all stations here. The polling stations are open between 7.30am to 9.00pm. You can cast your vote at any polling station within the Amsterdam borders. It usually only takes a few minutes!

What if I am not in town on election day?

In the Netherlands it is allowed to vote by proxy. If you cannot make it to a polling station on March 18, 2026, you can entrust a person close to you to vote on your behalf. For this process, simply fill in the form that is part of the voting pass envelope (Stempas) and follow the instructions. Don’t forget to let your proxy know who you want to vote for!

Why is it important to vote in local elections?

The city council is the highest governing body in Amsterdam and responsible for many decisions and policies that shape how our city looks, feels and functions. For example public transport, new building permits and renovations of housing, nightlife rules, traffic policies, parks and green spaces and tourist taxes. All these decisions have a direct impact on your daily life in Amsterdam.

Who will be the new mayor?

In the Netherlands, the mayor is not directly elected by residents. Instead the candidates get recommended by the city council. After the appointment by the monarch (a formality), the mayor chairs both the municipal council and the college of mayor and aldermen for six years.

I am still reading. What’s the next step?

If you are eligible to vote, have a look at the Volt program and read here how the city council is affecting your life in Amsterdam. Ultimately, get involved in local politics and have an impact on your city by going out and voting on March 18!

Verena Kitowski is running for Volt in the City Council elections and in the district committee West. She is German by passport, European at heart and Amsterdam has become her home in the last seven years. She is an expert on sustainability, consumer rights and circular economy. In the city council of Amsterdam, she wants to tackle local issues that affect internationals as well as Dutch residents. This includes all topics that contribute to a more open society and fighting ‘bubbles’, such as language barriers, anonymous neighbourhoods, housing and community building.

Read our full election program

At the same time, we saw something else. When people do talk to each other, something changes. People listen. They ask questions. And sometimes, their perception of the other shifts.

For Itay, this became very clear. He heard multiple times:
“You are the first Jewish person I have ever met.”

That shows how little people sometimes know each other, and how easy it is to form opinions without ever hearing someone else’s story.

More and more, we live in our own bubbles. We follow people who are like us. We mostly read what we already agree with. As a result, real conversations no longer happen naturally.

That is why there is now "Bekend maakt Bemind 2.0".

With this proposal, we ask the municipality to structurally organize dialogue and encounters. This means that in every district, there will be more frequent conversations between groups who rarely speak to each other. Not only when tensions arise, but especially when things are calm.

Districts will have the space to decide which groups and topics are relevant in their neighborhoods, and how these conversations are organized. This ensures they better reflect local needs.

Research shows that these kinds of encounters help reduce prejudice and increase mutual understanding. In this way, we prevent people from ending up on opposite sides.

Think of conversations in community centers, schools, or within neighborhoods. Small groups, close to home. Organized by people who know the area. This makes it easier for people to truly meet one another.

The goal is not for everyone to agree, but for people to understand each other better, to hear the story behind an opinion.

One principle is essential: everyone has equal rights. Freedom, safety, and respect apply to all.

Only by continuing to meet each other can we live together as a city.
Not alongside one another, but with one another.

That is why we must keep talking. Especially now.

During our “Open Kaart” event on 8 February at 7:30 p.m., we will discuss our highlights in more detail. There will also be plenty of time for questions from the audience. What have you always wanted to know about our political group or local politics? Register for the event and fire away!

Please note: the event is entirely in Dutch. Soon, we will announce an event especially for our non-Dutch speaking members.

View our full election program here.

For more information, interviews or further explanation, you can contact:

Daan Vellema
Press Officer Volt Amsterdam
E: daan.vellema@volteuropa.org
T: +316 16 10 33 21

Juliet Broersen
Council Group Leader & Lead Candidate
E: juliet.broersen@volteuropa.org

More student housing

In 2024, not a single student home was built. Our faction leader Juliet Broersen sounded the alarm. The result: in the coming years, the municipality will build 3000 new student homes in areas such as the Sluisbuurt and Sloterdijk. And yes, also for international students, because everyone deserves a place in our city. We are also pushing for a new agreement and cooperation on student housing, where the municipality, educational institutions and housing corporations work together to provide enough affordable rooms.

Building faster and finding creative solutions

Building more is good, but it also needs to happen faster. Thanks to our amendment, created in collaboration with others, three million euros will be made available to restart stalled housing projects. We also encourage residents of Amsterdam to rent out a room in their homes so that students can find accommodation more quickly, even without new construction.

Safe, healthy and affordable living

Too many students live in unhealthy or unsafe rooms. That is why we have introduced stricter rules for fire safety, fall protection and carbon monoxide prevention. Homes will also be inspected more thoroughly, and we are tackling moisture and mold in a structural way. Our goal: a mold-free Amsterdam by 2030. With clearer communication about the energy allowance, you will also know better what support you are entitled to.

A fair and inclusive student life

More and more students are struggling with inequality and mental pressure. We believe studying should be enjoyable, not unfair. That is why we are ensuring that undocumented vocational students receive better internship support, that they receive the same discounts as others, and that the municipality actively combats stigma around vocational education.

Looking ahead

Many steps have already been taken, but we are not there yet. We will continue building a creative and inclusive student city where mental health is a top priority. We want to listen, learn and make sure your voice counts. Do you have ideas about student life in Amsterdam? Let us know!

One app, one ticket

International train travel sometimes feels like a rollercoaster. One delay quickly causes a chain reaction of missed transfers. Each train company also has its own rules, booking system and fares. According to Marieke Koekkoek, this is unnecessarily complicated. ‘Why do we have a Skyscanner for flights but not for trains? Technically, it can easily be done. The problem is that companies don't want to share their data.’

The solution? Governments should demand that this data be made available. Then you can bundle all train data into one app. That transparency will create more competition and more attractive prices. With support from Europe, we can arrange this quickly.’

Faster from city to city

Besides convenience, the speed of trains also needs to increase, Marieke argues. ‘For that, we need fewer stops on international routes. That way, you can significantly reduce travel time between, say, Amsterdam and Berlin.’

As an example, Marieke mentions the train to Poland. ‘Too many changes and an awkward border crossing between Germany and Poland make the train impractical. With our group, for example, we had to opt for a 12-hour car journey for a working visit because the train ride would take more than 20 hours. Such long travel times simply do not fit into working schedules.'

But speed comes at a price. Some stations will have to be skipped, such as Hengelo, to improve travel times. ‘These are difficult choices, but they are essential to make the train more attractive,’ he says.

A level playing field

The next barrier: expensive tickets. In part, this is due to unfair competition. ‘Did you know that airlines don't pay VAT and fuel duty? While trains pay VAT as well as duty?’ asks Marieke. Costs for border controls are also skewed: at Schiphol Airport, the government pays for the border controls, while Eurostar itself has to pay for its checks. ‘That cannot be explained,’ says Marieke.

‘Almost everyone agrees: the polluter should pay,’ says Marieke. ‘But the practice is just the opposite now. The sustainable alternative gets the bill.’

Specifically, what can be done now? 

According to Marieke, there is much we can address as early as 2025. ‘A European ticketing system is one of the fastest achievable improvements,’ she says. ‘The technical solutions are ready. Now it's up to politicians to cut through the red tape and offer travellers that long-awaited all-in-one travel app. That makes it surveyable, and then you are more comfortable aboard the train.’ 

Speed on Dutch railways can also increase in the short term. ‘In the Netherlands, high-speed trains are currently slowed down because of outdated safety systems. We are testing the new system in Zeeland. If it succeeds, we can use existing lines more efficiently and reduce journey times.’

‘Finally, we can immediately make room for more providers on the railways, for example for seasonal overnight trains to popular destinations. In winter by train to the Alps and in summer to Barcelona. With the right choices, we will already make a big difference within a few years. Let's start with that today.’

Last week's events
The tensions in our city surrounding the conflict in the Middle East have been felt for some time. Many of us see on the news and on social media the suffering taking place there and feel powerless. For many, the deafening silence from the Dutch government reinforces this sense of powerlessness. These rising tensions are also visible in Amsterdam and reached a low point this week.

Violence, racism and anti-Semitism should never be the answer to grief, anger and powerlessness. Everyone in Amsterdam should be able to feel free and safe: whoever you are, whatever your views and wherever you come from.

So much happened in our city this week that it is impossible to cover all the situations in detail. Therefore, we highlight a few specific moments, noting that this is only a limited sample of the whole situation.

On Thursday night, Ajax played against Maccabi Tel Aviv at the Johan Cruijff ArenA. During the week, a Palestinian flag was pulled from an Amsterdam building, and a Palestinian flag was set on fire. In the streets of our city, Maccabi supporters shouted racist and hateful slogans, displayed provocative behavior and assaulted a cab driver. This kind of hatred will never be tolerated in Amsterdam. However, the police can only arrest someone if a report is made. Therefore, we would like to call on anyone who has experienced this violence to report to the police.

After the match, Israelis were searched and assaulted in several places in the city. Five of them were hospitalized. Telegram groups called for “hunting Jews” and anti-Semitic slogans were chanted. Multiple images of the violence used are circulating online. Let's be clear: There is no excuse for this anti-Semitic violence. The physical violence of Thursday night leads to a feeling of insecurity among many Jewish Amsterdam residents. Even after the night that followed the match, anti-Semitic incidents took place in our city. This is indigestible, unacceptable and not the Amsterdam we stand for.

If you yourself have become a victim of violence, hatred, threats, or vandalism, report it! This can be done with the municipality through the Report Centre for Nuisance and Safety, with the police or anonymously through meldmisdaadanoniem.nl.

Emergency ordinance
As a result of the violence in our city, an emergency ordinance has been declared by the Amsterdam safety-triangle until Thursday, November 14, 12:00 pm. This means that the entire city is a “security risk" area. The police can carry out preventive searches, there is a ban on face-covering clothing, and there is a ban on demonstrations.

Emergency debate
Today, Tuesday, November 12 at noon, there will be an emergency debate in the Amsterdam City Council about all that has happened this week. During that debate we will also discuss these measures and ask the mayor about her considerations in this matter. Yesterday evening the faction received a more extensive factual report from the mayor in order to have a good and substantive debate today. In any case, we will ask the mayor about how and when it was decided to intervene, how a risk assessment of the situation was arrived at, and what the college plans to do to keep the city together.

You can follow the emergency debate live on the municipal website.

Volt Amsterdam meeting
We notice that Volters are also concerned about the violence and events of last week. We are trying to set up a meeting as soon as possible, a place where we can respectfully engage in conversation, share emotions, and exchange thoughts.

Do you feel the need to participate? Then sign up in advance through this link.

In conclusion
The events of this week have changed our city. It is worrying and reprehensible that some politicians in the House of Representatives are adding fuel to the fire with their statements; they are pitting citizens against each other in this way, making Amsterdam unsafe. Discriminating, sowing fear or trivializing what happened helps no one. It creates more division and more polarization. This affects our entire city. We must now stand together against hatred and division. Violence is not the solution. Not now, not ever.

We hope that you, people of Amsterdam, will continue to look out for each other. Find the connection with each other. Because Amsterdam must remain a place where everyone feels safe and is safe.

On behalf of the entire faction,

Juliet Broersen, Faction-leader of Volt Amsterdam

Contribution Juliet Broersen

Chair,

We discuss the budget today in an extra turbulent week after an eventful year. Last Monday marked the first anniversary of the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, resulting in thousands of innocent victims and a great deal of suffering that continues today.

 That suffering is also palpable in our city.  It expressed itself in different ways. From dialogues, to demonstrations.

And every day, the tone here in Amsterdam seems to become sharper. We see rising anti-Semitism and Muslim hatred. We see Jews being held responsible for the policies of the Israeli government, and we see pro-Palestine demonstrators too often unfairly dismissed as Jew-haters.     

It also doesn't help that politics sometimes seems to eagerly feed this. If you are in favour of one thing, you are automatically against the other, according to some politicians. And so polarisation only increases.

 The conservative wind blowing through Europe has now also reached the Netherlands. The Netherlands' largest party is founded on dividing ‘us’ from ‘them’. 

Polarisation

Where polarisation is only fuelled there, I am glad, even relieved, that that tone does not find a majority in our city, no matter how hard some parties try. No, most here like to seek the connection, and the executive also thinks it is important to counter polarisation. 

That is precisely why I am surprised that combating polarisation receives little attention in the budget, and I am curious to know how the municipal executive will tackle this. 

As a city and council, we need to strive to connect continuously. Especially in times like these. I would also like to dwell on connection and empathy today. Today, the initiative proposal by my colleagues Itay Garmy and Sheher Khan on organising meetings and conversations in the city districts will be presented. A proposal that summarises all the lessons they have learnt over the past year during their countless meetings with people in Amsterdam. Hopefully, this proposal will inspire us to connect with people who are sometimes opposed to us. 

And Chairman, when my colleague Garmy then tells me about the conversations he has with Member Khan at primary schools in Amsterdam, the things that hurt me the most are always the anxious questions from the children.  Can I be here? Is my pain legitimate? Can I still stay here? 

For some of these children, the example of Amsterdam's Mikael (threatened with deportation despite being born here - MDC)  causes anxiety. The number of children in our city burdened by stress and worry is high, so please don't let this land on their little shoulders. 

Instead of harshness and gut-wrenching policies, we advocate understanding and compassion. Rooted children should never be deported. As far as Volt is concerned, we should simply enshrine these essential children's rights, but that lies with the cabinet. 

That is why we are tabling a motion calling for us to fight for this together with all Dutch municipalities and asking what steps the council is taking to prevent the deportation of rooted children.

The State and Amsterdam

Chairman, this budget clearly attempts to preserve Amsterdam as a social city despite the changing national context in which we find ourselves. A city where we look out for each other and continue to take care of people in need. 

So Volt supports the continuation of the bed-bath-bread scheme in 2025. However, we are very concerned about the years that follow. 

Trust in government

A city where everyone can participate and is equal requires a municipality that looks after all its residents and gives a helping hand to those who need it. This is how we build solidarity in the city, work on trust in each other, and thus on trust in the government. And in our view, that starts with being an approachable, service-minded government.  

Over the past year, I have had many conversations with Amsterdam residents who get stuck in their contact with the municipality. Their experiences go beyond extending a passport. The Amsterdammers I spoke to depend on the city to get proper care for themselves or a sick family member or to get financial support. Good services can make the difference between a life of even more worry and one in which they can cope as best they can. 

Good service provision should be a top priority of every municipality, with growing confidence as a significant benefit. Chairman, the budget states that the city intends to close some of its buildings. Which buildings will this involve, and how do we ensure this does not affect the municipality's accessibility for Amsterdam residents? 

After all, a municipality that is easy to reach takes the time to listen and the space to act with a human touch, instilling confidence that the government has its residents' best interests at heart. 

Another way to gain trust is by giving trust. Therefore, it is crucial that we include people in our plans, dilemmas, and choices. Amsterdam is moving in the right direction regarding participation, but big steps still need to be taken. By involving Amsterdammers in the city's choices and dilemmas, you create support and trust for the necessary transitions. 

In the coalition agreement, we see that three citizens' councils would be organised, but we seem to be stuck with two. Does the council plan to organise a third one in this council period? In addition, we are curious in what additional ways the college plans to better involve Amsterdammers in the city's plans.

Property tax (OZB)

It is not only important to properly involve our residents in our plans. Organisations, businesses, and entrepreneurs who make Amsterdam what it is also need to be included in our choices. This is demonstrated once again by the proposed increase in the OZB. The corporations were not included in this decision and were surprised. 

Now, there was a hole in the budget, and the ozone tax was used as a band-aid, without considering what consequences this could have on, for instance, the sustainability and housing quality of social housing. How does the councillor reflect on this? In retrospect, would he have handled this in the same way?

Europe

Chairman, Volt would not be Volt if we did not close with our gaze outwards. The EU and Europe are hardly mentioned in every budget in this parliamentary term. We insist that when people increasingly seem to be turning inwards, we must look outwards with our sights set. 

We will remain committed to learning from other cities and continuing to take our leading European role in sustainability and digitalisation, for instance. Last year, we tabled a motion to receive an annual report on our international vision and policy. We look forward to receiving this so we can have a broader conversation about how we, as Amsterdam, relate to the international order. 

Conclusion

Chairman, in conclusion.

We make Amsterdam together. That is why we must keep sight of each other. We must meet and keep talking to each other. We have to give room for differences of opinion or insight and, at the same time, see where our similarities lie. We will continue to work for a connected Amsterdam.

Thank you!

With less money coming from the state, Amsterdam has to make savings and raise taxes. We understand this, but it is important that it is future-oriented. A good example of non-future-oriented cuts are the cuts in maintenance of public spaces. With a city growing rapidly and an increasingly unpredictable climate, this is a risky choice: overdue maintenance will cost the city dearly, in the long run.

Another choice of the college with potentially major consequences is the increase in property tax (ozb). This may hit hard for some Amsterdam residents. But until now, residents of Amsterdam have paid relatively less than residents of other large cities. Therefore, we understand the choice of the college to increase these taxes. However, we think it is important that there is consideration for people who may not be able to afford this, such as the elderly with small pensions, starters on the housing market or families already struggling to make ends meet.

Positive are the investments the college is making in energy transition, refugee and homeless shelters and combating the teacher shortage. A specific example is the investment in our grid capacity. If Amsterdam does not invest now in solving capacity problems on the power grid, the lights will literally go out at your home in 2028. The fact that extra money is now being made available for this means that the municipality of Amsterdam is finally looking ahead. And that is necessary, because the municipality must ensure that energy will remain available and affordable for all Amsterdam residents. So we must invest now for the future of Amsterdam.

Deficits from the state and investments in the city 

The 2025 budget also shows that Amsterdam takes the blows of failing national policies in areas such as shelter, care and poverty reduction. Whereas the government makes incomprehensible choices and terminates the government's contribution to the bed-bath-bread scheme, we in Amsterdam know that without this form of shelter, the very people who need care will end up on the streets. We are therefore relieved that this shelter can be continued next year. However, we are very concerned about how things will continue after 2026.

Focus on 2025 

Budget cuts should not be at the expense of involving Amsterdam residents in choices about their living environment.

Amsterdam is moving in the right direction, but big steps still need to be taken, as  was seen in the discussions about the referendum and the wind turbines. By involving Amsterdam citizens in the choices and dilemmas of the city, you create support and trust for the necessary transitions.

Finally, it strikes us that the EU and Europe barely feature in the budget, even though both are important to Amsterdam. Many challenges, such as problems caused by air traffic and surplustourism, had better be tackled together. We will continue to insist on this and will ensure that the EU and Europe are explicitly considered when looking for solutions on these kinds of problems.

In the coming years we will continue to work on our ambitions for Amsterdam. An Amsterdam in which everyone can participate and in which Amsterdam citizens have confidence. An Amsterdam that remains livable, safe and connective for all its (future) inhabitants. An Amsterdam that, with an eye for the welfare of all Amsterdam citizens, works towards progress and solutions for the great challenges of our future.

On 6 June 2024, we, the people of Amsterdam, went to the polls to vote in a referendum. You could vote for or against the new policy framework for the Hoofdgroenstructuur, and 59.1% voted against it. During the council meeting on June 26 and 27, the city council discussed the referendum's outcome.

In short, what is the Hoofdgroenstructuur (Main Green Structure) again?

The Hoofdgroenstructuur Framework is a document that contains all the rules and procedures regarding green spaces in Amsterdam. It outlines which areas must remain green and where buildings are not allowed unless an exception is made. This policy has now been updated. It includes green areas and new exception grounds. These exceptions went too far for a group that became the initiators of this referendum. They felt that the green spaces in our city were not sufficiently protected.

The council votes against the new policy framework

During the recent council meeting on 26 and 27 June, the city council discussed what to do with the referendum's outcome. The referendum was advisory and non-binding, meaning that the city council ultimately decides what happens to the new policy framework. In the end, we voted against it as a whole council. So, as advised by the Amsterdam residents, we voted against the new Hoofdgroenstructuur policy framework. This means that the executive now has to work on a new policy framework. Due to various practical matters, this will likely only start in 2026. As a result, the green spaces in our city will be less well protected for at least two years. Our council group is, of course, not happy with this.

Our initiatives

Many discussions were held with the referendum's initiators and various parties to see how the green spaces could be better protected. Motions and amendments during the council meeting could adjust this. Additionally, our group sought a way to involve the Amsterdam residents who voted 'against' in these new plans. Unfortunately, it was not possible to reach an agreement with all political parties on the plans that were on the table at that time.

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As an alternative, we preferred the executive to start immediately with an adjusted policy framework together with the city. In the referendum, 277,049 people only had the choice of voting 'for' or 'against.' Ideally, you would want to hear from Amsterdammers why they are for or against. Therefore, we introduced the idea of forming a working group of residents, involved organisations, the initiators (of the referendum), civil servants, and experts to develop a new policy framework through various discussions. An improvement of the current version that would be more widely supported and presented to the council before the new college period in 2026. Unfortunately, the college did not see enough capacity within the municipality for this idea. However, it is a political choice to free up capacity for this. As far as we are concerned, we would have chosen this, but unfortunately, there was no majority for it.

The coalition parties proposed a Burgerberaad, a citizens' assembly

During the council meeting, the coalition parties proposed a citizens' assembly on green spaces in our city, public space, and housing: the distribution of scarce space. In itself, not a bad idea, but we were critical in the council meeting. The citizens' assembly would then provide advice on a very broadly formulated question, the answer to which should provide input for a specific and highly technical policy framework. Additionally, we were surprised that there would be capacity for this. A citizens' assembly is a great instrument but requires good preparation and work from civil servants. Lastly, the citizens' assembly would replace the participation process for a new Hoofdgroenstructuur policy framework. That is not the way the new policy framework should be shaped. The citizens' assembly on the distribution of scarcity could provide additional input but should not replace the participation process in creating a policy framework for protecting green spaces. Then, the citizens' assembly becomes a distraction from the work that really needs to be done.

The council group's dilemma

Our group faced a dilemma. We wanted a new policy framework in co-creation by 2026, but we have yet to find a majority in the city council. There was, however, a majority for the initiative for a citizens' assembly. Again, in our view, not the right instrument in this process. So, do we vote against the citizens' assembly to make our point clear, or do we see opportunities to steer the proposed citizens' assembly with various motions and additional adjustments?

We chose the latter, so we submitted two motions during the discussion. First, a motion for a broad participation process specifically for the new Hoofdgroenstructuur policy framework so that not only the input from a citizens' assembly on a broader issue is used. Second, a motion to meaningfully and authoritatively involve the expertise of residents' groups on green spaces and other spatial issues in the citizens' assembly. A majority in the council meeting passed both motions.

Next steps

The executive can now get to work with a clear mandate from the council to develop a new Hoofdgroenstructuur Policy Framework. We expect to vote on it again in the city council in 2026.

We would have preferred a different outcome of this process, but politics sometimes means compromises. In this way, our group has tried to do justice to the referendum result as best as possible, and we have collectively reached a provisional conclusion of this dossier with the city council. Of course, we will keep you informed of the next steps in the process.

Want to read more (in Dutch)?

https://www.parool.nl/amsterdam/na-referendum-nu-burgerberaad-over-groenstructuur-deel-oppositie-spreekt-van-politieke-spelletjes~bca40a4e/

https://www.parool.nl/amsterdam/hoe-verder-na-het-referendum-achter-de-schermen-is-de-spanning-tussen-groenlinks-en-partij-voor-de-dieren-hoog-opgelopen~b5667cdd/

What is the (new) Main Green Structure Policy?

The Main Green Structure Policy is a document that contains all the rules and procedures regarding greenery in Amsterdam. It describes which areas must remain green and where building is not allowed, unless an exception is made. This policy has now been updated. Thus, there are green areas added, but also exception grounds added. These exceptions are assessed by an independent committee, the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC). Their advice is not binding; the final decision rests with the college of mayor and aldermen. The TAC considers the new policy an improvement, but on the other hand, we see that the college has been ignoring many negative TAC opinions for years. The initiators of the referendum feel that there is too much room for the college to still build in the protected green areas of the city.

Poor participation, dissatisfied Amsterdammers

In our opinion, this referendum is the result of a poor participation process. This policy is an incredibly important document about how much green space there is and remains in the city; a topic that is very important to Amsterdammers. According to us, this calls for an extensive and proactive participation plan. However, the policy was only available for the legally required six weeks for public consultation. Despite this poor participation, more than 500 responses from residents and organisations were received (which is a lot for a document that is 'on display'). This should have been a sign for the college to expand participation and engage in conversation with the submitters, but that did not happen. Furthermore, many of these responses were not processed satisfactorily. Therefore, some people started the procedure to initiate a referendum. Even when 10,000 signatures were collected for a referendum, the college still had the chance to reach a compromise. Volt also asked for this in the council. Unfortunately, this did not succeed. That is why we now have a referendum. We conclude that the new policy has not been well explained or discussed with Amsterdammers, and therefore we say: back to the drawing board!

What if I vote for, what if I vote against?

First of all, the City Council decides what to do with the referendum results. But basically, with your vote you are saying the following:

If you vote FOR the new policy framework on June 6, you are voting for the new policy as it stands. No adjustments need be made then.

If you vote AGAINST it, then you are voting against the new policy and the college will come up with new policies. It will probably remain largely the same, but hopefully the concerns of the referendum petitioners will then be addressed.

Our position

We are pleased that Amsterdammers are committed to the preservation and expansion of green spaces in the city. This goal aligns with our own goals: a greener city and better protection of existing green spaces. Research shows that Amsterdam has increasingly less green space per inhabitant, and we are concerned about that. The new policy is, in that respect, a step in the right direction, but some concerns of Amsterdammers are justified. Furthermore, we see this referendum as a signal from Amsterdammers to the college that green spaces are not receiving the priority they deserve and that they want to be more involved. We hope that this referendum will prompt the college to better participate on such an important issue.

Therefore, we believe we should vote against it.

Good choices

There are some financial setbacks, but mostly windfalls. For instance, Amsterdam has received more money from the central government and faces lower interest costs. As a result, Amsterdam can make several additional investments.

We are pleased with the decision to set aside extra money for the bridge over the IJ. This is crucial for improving the accessibility of Noord, which becomes increasingly important given the large housing ambitions in this district. Previously, we were critical in the council that insufficient funds were reserved for the bridge. The 100 million euros available so far was far from enough to realize the bridge. With the additional 120 million euros now allocated, the bridge is finally within reach.

Another investment we support is the decision to spend 15 million euros on the construction of a teacher campus, which would create 80 affordable homes for teachers. Although this is a drop in the bucket considering the current shortage of homes and teachers, every little bit helps. After all, every home and every teacher counts.

Lack of choices for a structural problem

Despite the room for investments, these remain financially challenging times. Municipalities are soon expected to receive less income from the central government, referred to as "the cliff." The new cabinet's coalition agreement presented this week does not provide clarity on this. There is no structural solution yet. The Spring Memorandum barely addresses this. It mainly refers to the so-called governance assignment. This is a study conducted by the municipality to gain more insight into its finances so that the executive and the council can decide what we will and will not do. Less money forces us to make sharper choices. The problem is that the governance assignment has been delayed for years, and interim results expected with the Spring Memorandum are still unavailable. Decisions on structural solutions for the cliff are again postponed. This leaves it unclear who will have to pay the bill and with what money.

In the coming weeks, we will further study the Spring Memorandum and discuss it in the committees. On June 26 and 27, the Spring Memorandum will be addressed in the city council.

The Spring Memorandum can be read on this municipal webpage. (Dutch only)

Throughout the year, we have conducted site visits, participated in debates, and submitted political proposals. This report provides a glimpse of our accomplishments. Would you like to know more and join the conversation with us? Then come to our Town Hall Meeting on April 4!

Read the report here

I live in the Netherlands, and I have a Dutch passport

As a Dutch citizen, you will receive a voter card in your mailbox no later than two weeks before June 6, and you can proceed to vote. You don't need to do anything else! 

I live in the Netherlands, but I don't have a Dutch passport

If you are an EU citizen from another member state residing in the Netherlands, you do not automatically receive a voting pass. You must register by April 23, 2024, which is 44 days before the elections. To do this, you need to fill out and submit the Y 32 form to the municipal office.

I am temporarily abroad, I have a Dutch passport and am registered in the Netherlands

If you are a Dutch citizen temporarily residing abroad but still registered in the Netherlands, you can vote by mail, or you can authorize someone else to vote on your behalf. Keep in mind that the authorization form must be submitted no later than five days before the elections.

I live abroad, but I have a Dutch passport

For Dutch citizens permanently residing abroad, it is also possible to vote in the European Parliament elections. To do this, you need to register ASAP as a 'Dutch voter abroad' with the municipality of The Hague. 

With this registration, you will automatically receive the appropriate documents for the elections for the House of Representatives, the European Parliament, and the electoral college for non-residents for the Senate.