28 Jun 2022 | 09:55 AM UTC
Netherlands: Agricultural workers protesting nationwide June 28; main demonstration in The Hague
Dutch agricultural workers protesting nationwide June 28; main action in The Hague. Increased security, transport disruptions likely.
Event
Agricultural workers in the Netherlands are staging protests nationwide June 28 to denounce proposed government nitrogen reduction policies that would impact the sector. The House of Representatives is due to vote on some of the policy June 28. Activists have set fire to hay bales next to major highways throughout the country prompting significant transport congestion on nearby routes; impacted highways include the A2, A7, A9, A12, A15, A28, and A50. Authorities have extinguished the fires in many locations; but further actions, including roadblock protests, are possible on highways nationwide June 28.
Activists also intend to demonstrate in The Hague June 28 as part of the protests. Participants will gather on Bezuidenhoutseweg from 12:00. Activists may arrive in farm vehicles, blocking traffic on nearby routes through the afternoon of June 28. Local authorities are implementing increased security measures in the surrounding area, including likely road closures and movement restrictions. Authorities state that state activists must not block traffic on major routes as part of the protest; police could resort to forceful methods to prevent or disperse the action if this order is ignored prompting isolated clashes with participants. Bystanders are unlikely to be directly targeted in any ensuing violence but would face an indirect threat of harm.
Advice
Check traffic conditions prior to travel; allow extra time to complete journeys and plan alternative routes if necessary. Avoid all demonstrations as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.
