Chair, first of all, I would very much like to congratulate PRO and D66 on their coalition agreement. Amsterdam faces very major challenges, and I think it is good for everyone that we can get to work quickly. So I am also pleased that we are discussing a coalition agreement here today, and that it has indeed been presented to us at such a rapid pace.

We see ambition to take a critical look at the city’s own organisation, to strengthen the position and safety of women in the city, and to work towards a municipality that stands alongside its residents, instead of opposite them. And I am very pleased about that.

Over the past period, in the aftermath of the elections, I have also spoken with many people in the city who read a coalition agreement for the first time in their lives. And they said: “Well, actually, there is not much in it that you can be against.” And that is exactly the image these two parties seem to want to present. A very attractive picture has indeed been painted, but is it really the honest story? Are the hard blows and painful choices not simply being hidden away in subordinate clauses and clever wording? Or are the choices simply being postponed?

Building

Let me give an example. Building. What should be our number one priority now seems to be postponed through a Building Agenda. After all the debates and big words between these two parties about the housing crisis during the campaign, this agreement pushes the most important choices further down the road. Instead of presenting concrete plans and making clear choices, Amsterdam has to wait for a Building Agenda.

And of course, sitting down together around the table is a good thing. I am a strong supporter of that. But from these two parties, who fought so hard to have the final say on building and used such big words during the campaign, I really did expect to see choices. The fact that this does not happen in this agreement mainly gives me the impression that you simply did not fully manage to reach an agreement.

That is why we would very much like to know when the Building Agenda will be ready. In fact, I would very much like to see it by the end of this year. Because I do not want to wait too long for it. Amsterdam cannot afford another round of delay. We need to move forward.

And if building is apparently being postponed for a little longer, then please do something about the existing housing stock. And by that I am, of course, referring to an absolute no-brainer: permit-free house sharing. What a shame for the city that PRO won that negotiation.

For young people and starters, an affordable home in Amsterdam is no longer within reach. Young people are forced to live with their parents, without a contract, without registration, without rights. And unfortunately, this coalition has chosen not even to leave the door to house sharing slightly ajar, but to close it completely. Contrary to what Councillor Pels, and now Alderman Pels, suggested in the debate.

Geopolitics

From postponing to failing to look ahead. The past few years have shown how quickly geopolitical developments can affect the wallets of Amsterdammers. Higher energy bills, more expensive groceries, and extra pressure on households that are already struggling.

That is why I had hoped to read a bit more in this coalition agreement about how resilience will be put into practice. And, for example, about the future affordability crisis that several institutions are warning about. How do we make sure Amsterdam is prepared now, so that we are not caught off guard again? After all, the world does not seem likely to become much calmer over the next four years.

And no funding has been made available for this. The coalition agreement mentions energy independence, but in practice it acts too slowly. The budget for the insulation pact will only be available in 2028. Is that not far too late?

Public services

Chair, to move on to another point. Over the past four years, my group has worked hard to bring the human touch back into the way people are helped by the municipality. Many Amsterdammers have literally opened their doors to us and allowed us to see what happens behind them. And that showed us up close the impact of failing policy on public services.

Yet in our attempts to achieve systemic change on this point, we kept running into a closed door. Our request was too difficult, impossible, too soon, unwise, unnecessary — you name it.

That is why we are pleased that this coalition agreement appears to strike a different tone. But we do want to remind the Executive that this represents a major shift compared to the previous term, during which you were also in charge.

It requires opening the door to new forms of dissent, to new ideas, and daring to let go of the “computer says no” mentality. We will therefore be watching closely to make sure this actually happens.

In our view, this is also connected to the plan to cut 2,500 jobs. It is unclear what this number is based on and where these cuts will be felt most. The same still applies, for me, to the cuts to youth care and the Wmo.

Internationals

Finally, according to this coalition, this agreement is for everyone. What stands out is that internationals, whose votes both parties campaigned hard for, are not mentioned anywhere in this agreement. The challenges they shared during debates and public meetings do not return here.

And for us, this does not have to be a separate major programme. But if the municipality says it wants to be an ally to residents, then it must also pay attention to the Amsterdammers who, because of language, unfamiliarity with the system, or a smaller network, find it harder to find their way to the municipality.

And if you campaign so hard for that vote, then please make sure that voice is reflected in the agreement too.

All in all, many fine words, but still something of an agreement that kicks the can down the road.

Image: Sem van der Wal/ANP

We congratulate PRO Amsterdam and D66 Amsterdam on the coalition agreement. The agreement contains positive steps. It takes a critical look at the municipality’s own organisation, works towards an agenda to strengthen the position of women, and commits to a municipality that stands alongside residents rather than opposite them.

But this agreement does not provide answers on every point. More and more young people are wondering whether there is still room in their own city to build a future.

For young people, finding an affordable home has become too difficult. Hardly any new homes are being built, thousands of homes are disappearing from the market, and many young people live without a rental contract and therefore without rights. That this coalition chooses to do nothing about house sharing, the biggest frustration among this group, is therefore incomprehensible. If you say that young people deserve a place in Amsterdam, you must also dare to relax the rules on house sharing. Thousands of rooms are standing empty, and with this agreement, that will remain the case.

It is also clear that this coalition has not managed to agree on whether it wants to build according to the 40-40-20 or 30-40-30 model. Report after report shows that complete neighbourhoods are not being built. Either facilities are missing, or homes are being built that no one wants to live in. The proposed Building Agenda, which we do not know how long we will have to wait for, feels like postponing the most important problem of our time. This coalition must make a firm choice instead of finding a watered-down middle ground.

We also see many fine words about a humane government, equal opportunities and livelihood security. But here too, the ambition could be greater. PRO and D66 choose to simplify minimum-income schemes, introduce a benefits check and reduce unnecessary burden of proof. Those are steps forward, but for us they are not enough. We want the municipality to simply grant benefits automatically, as is done in Ghent, to place the burden of proof on itself, and to work towards one basic amount for families instead of the jungle of schemes we have now. We are also concerned by the cuts to the Wmo and youth care. That is at odds with the promise of being a humane government that provides livelihood security.

In the coming years, major cuts will be made to the municipality’s own organisation. According to the agreement, the municipality must shrink by as much as 20% in the coming years. As far as Volt is concerned, it is good that we take a critical look at our own organisation. Where it is possible to cut unnecessary bureaucracy, management layers and meeting structures, we should do so.

But we are left with questions about what this cut will mean in practice. It is unclear what this 20% is based on, and where it will be felt most. How do we know that this reduction is possible, and how do we ensure that it will not ultimately come at the expense of services for Amsterdammers?

What surprises us, finally, is that our international community is not mentioned at all. While this group was often addressed directly during the campaign, including by PRO and D66, we now see that they have been forgotten. It gives the impression that they were mainly seen as an attractive target group for extra votes, rather than as a full part of our city.

We are glad that there is an agreement, but Amsterdam needs more than good intentions. In the coming years, Volt will work to make this agreement more progressive and more future-oriented; that is what the next generation deserves.

For more information, interviews or clarification, please contact:

Daan Vellema
Press Officer Volt Amsterdam
E: daan.vellema@volteuropa.org
T: +31 6 16 10 33 21

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

Photo: councillors experience a menstruation simulato

The proposal introduces the possibility of flexible working arrangements, such as working from home or adjusting working hours when symptoms make it difficult to work as usual. It also aims to ensure that managers and confidential advisers are better equipped to discuss these issues and provide support.

In addition, the municipality will explore where free menstrual products can be made available to employees. The proposal does not introduce specific menstrual leave, but focuses on practical support, understanding, and flexibility in the workplace.

“This proposal is about recognition,” said initiator Itay Garmy. “Good employers create room for tailored solutions and understanding.”

With this approach, Amsterdam aims to contribute to a fairer and more inclusive working environment while helping to break the taboo surrounding menstruation symptoms.

Read more in Het Parool.

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

The proposal

Shared housing is one of the best ways for young people, students, and first-time buyers to secure their first home in Amsterdam. It also ensures that existing housing is used more efficiently, helping to address the housing shortage.

However, housing associations have stopped facilitating shared housing. This is mainly because it creates a lot of administrative work to draw up a separate contract for each tenant.

Therefore, the municipal executive is being asked to investigate how housing corporations can once again make use of so-called friends contracts, as was made possible following a ruling by the Council of State in Nijmegen. The idea is that it should also become easier again in Amsterdam to rent a home together through this type of contract.

The municipal executive is asked to develop a proposal for the 2027 housing ordinance, so that shared housing becomes more attractive and easier for housing corporations and housing seekers.

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!

The proposal

Juliet Broersen has introduced a temporary subsidy scheme in the municipal council to better protect homes against fall hazards. Residents, homeowners’ associations (VvE’s), and landlords will soon be able to apply for a reimbursement for simple safety measures: window limiters, safety bars, or safety glass.

Amsterdam already has regulations: windows lower than 60 cm must be secured, and safety requirements also apply when a property’s use is changed. In practice, enforcement often falls short due to limited capacity. This scheme therefore offers a positive solution: residents can take action themselves and get started immediately. “This is a practical approach that really makes a difference,” says Juliet.

The subsidy can be applied for either as an upfront voucher or as a reimbursement afterwards, allowing everyone to choose what works best. The municipality will also actively reach out to residents in neighbourhoods where the risk of fall accidents is higher, for example in homes with older windows or single glazing.

Volt believes everyone should be able to live safely. Fall protection is a small measure, but it can make a big difference. With this scheme, we take another step towards a city where we can all feel at home without worry.

Proposal

According to data from Kamernet, the supply of student housing in the city decreased by 27% in the second quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. This is concerning, especially because many young people are therefore forced to continue living with their parents. High rents and limited availability make it difficult to find a room. At the same time, this also affects students who do not have an official residential address. They sometimes face practical issues, for example with registration or access to healthcare, and may experience financial disadvantages because they are not eligible for an out-of-home student grant. It can also mean they are less able to vote in the municipality where they actually live.

In addition, demand for non-self-contained student housing, rooms in shared houses or buildings, is very high, while supply remains limited. To address this, the city council proposes to use a one-off €3 million from the general reserve in 2026. This reserve functions as the municipality’s financial “savings” and is above the required threshold, which creates room to allocate part of it.

With this funding, the municipality aims to give an impulse to the construction of student housing. In 2026, a study will therefore be launched into how the development of especially non-self-contained student housing can be better stimulated. It will also explore whether there are projects where an additional financial contribution from the municipality could make the difference, allowing construction plans to actually get underway.

The College of Mayor and Aldermen will present the results of this study to the City Council before 1 March 2026. After that, the €3 million can be used to implement the outcomes of the research and contribute to increasing the supply of student housing in the city.

According to the recent ETHOS study, reported by Het Parool on 8 October 2025, 11,065 people in Amsterdam are homeless or living in insecure housing situations, including 1,446 children. For the first time, 14 children were identified as literally sleeping on the streets, a deeply alarming situation that highlights the urgent need for action.

“This issue goes far beyond the housing crisis alone, but the housing shortage remains at its core. We must act now to ensure that families and women have a safe place to stay,” said Juliet Broersen.

Based on these figures and signals from organizations working in the field, the councillors jointly submitted three motions last week aimed at preventing and addressing homelessness among women and families more effectively.

Motions for structural change

Motion 1 - Drop-in centres and emergency shelters specifically for homeless women

Women make up 30% of Amsterdam’s homeless population, yet they are often overlooked in both research and policy. They are more likely to stay in unsafe informal networks and often avoid regular drop-in centres because of fears of (sexual) violence. A dedicated drop-in centre and emergency shelter would provide a safe space for women and their children while improving access to support services.

Motion 2 - Expanding the Vulnerable Groups Housing Programme

Single mothers and their children often lose access to urgent housing support because legal requirements, such as formally claiming housing rights, can be difficult to prove. This motion asks the municipal executive to explore how the Vulnerable Groups Housing Programme can be expanded, allowing for more tailored solutions and helping to prevent child homelessness.

Motion 3 - Regional agreements for homeless families

Current local connection requirements limit access to shelters and housing support. The absence of regional agreements also slows down pathways to stable housing for homeless families. This motion calls on the municipality to engage with the Amsterdam-Amstelland region and the Province of North Holland to explore cooperation between municipalities, housing associations, and private landlords.

A Package for Safety and Opportunity

Together, these three motions form a comprehensive package of measures proposed by Volt, the Party for the Animals, and the Labour Party. The package combines targeted policy, tailored support, and regional cooperation to provide greater safety, stability, and opportunities for some of the city’s most vulnerable residents.

The motions received broad support in the city council and underline that while the housing shortage remains the root cause, the problem extends far beyond housing alone. Deputy Mayor Groot Wassink responded positively: “My thanks to all councillors who not only support the municipal approach, but who also continue to draw attention to the position of women and children. This is a horrifyingly distressing problem.”

“Parents deserve time and support to grieve after a miscarriage.” - Juliet Broersen 

Around one in five pregnancies ends prematurely, yet statutory leave is only available after 24 weeks. As a result, parents are often forced to call in sick while coping with bleeding, physical recovery, and profound grief. The current system effectively says: your loss only counts later. We believe that is unacceptable.

With our motion, we are asking the municipal executive to establish three days of paid bereavement leave for both mothers and partners, and to immediately inform managers that they can grant this leave. In doing so, we follow positive examples from abroad: New Zealand introduced three days of paid leave in 2021, Belgium offers civil servants two days, and the United Kingdom has also increasingly recognised the importance of time and space to grieve. By leading the way as the capital city, we hope to inspire other municipalities and the national government to take action.

Volt stands for a government that trusts people and keeps rules simple. Bereavement leave prevents parents from having to hide their grief behind a sick note, reduces stress, and can help lower the risk of anxiety and depression. By taking this step, we normalise the conversation around miscarriage, break the taboo, and build a more inclusive city where work and wellbeing are in balance.

By taking this step, we make it easier to combine work and wellbeing, normalise conversations about miscarriage, and show that progressive policy can start at the local level.

In the news:

https://www.parool.nl/amsterdam/amsterdam-voert-als-eerste-gemeente-rouwverlof-in-bij-miskraam-voor-24-weken-geef-ruimte-om-verlies-serieus-te-nemen~b17ca84c/

https://www.ad.nl/binnenland/amsterdam-krijgt-als-eerste-gemeente-rouwverlof-bij-miskraam-voor-24-weken-ruimte-om-verlies-serieus-te-nemen~a17ca84c/

https://www.kekmama.nl/artikel/nieuws/vroeg-zwangerschapsverlies-amsterdam-rouwverlof

https://www.linda.nl/nieuws/binnenland/gemeente-amsterdam-rouwverlof-miskraam/

https://www.kekmama.nl/artikel/nieuws/vroeg-zwangerschapsverlies-amsterdam-rouwverlof

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.