Netherlands: Extinction Rebellion and farmers groups plan separate protests in The Hague, March 11

Event

Climate activists from Extinction Rebellion (XR) plan to demonstrate in The Hague on March 11. The group will attempt to block the A12 motorway from 12:00; the area is located near the temporary building of the House of Representatives and the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate. The Farmers Defense Force (FDF) also plans a demonstration on March 11, when organizers plan for thousands of agricultural vehicles to converge on Zuiderpark.

As of March 8, the city's mayor has declared that he will deploy police to prevent the XR protests on the A12, but he will permit XR to demonstrate in the adjacent Koekamp 12:00-18:00. He also stated that police will only allow two tractors into the city center as part of the farmers' rally and that the FDF may demonstrate in Zuiderpark 12:00-16:00.

It is unknown whether XR and FDF activists will follow these instructions or attempt to follow their original plans. In either possibility, police will likely deploy to facilitate and monitor the events. Temporary road closures are likely. Traffic and public transport disruptions and diversions are possible. Scuffles between police and protestors cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid the protests as a routine security procedure. Follow local travel and security advice. Allow extra time for travel in The Hague on March 11. In the event of violence, withdraw from the area immediately.