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29-05-2023
HAGUE: The city of The Hague was the site of a substantial climate protest led by the Extinction Rebellion group, resulting in the arrest of over 1,500 individuals, as reported by the Dutch police.
The protesters took action by obstructing a portion of a motorway in the afternoon to voice their opposition against the government’s support for Dutch fossil fuel subsidies. In response, law enforcement authorities employed water cannons to disperse the demonstrators and subsequently detained a total of 1,579 individuals. Among those arrested, 40 individuals, including vandals, will face legal consequences for their actions.
Extinction Rebellion estimated that approximately 7,000 people gathered to join the demonstration, showcasing the widespread concern for the urgent need to address climate change. Some protesters anticipated the use of water cannons and came prepared, donning swimsuits or carrying umbrellas while sitting in protest on the A12 motorway. Banners and signs were prominently displayed, expressing their demands and raising awareness about the climate crisis.
This protest marked the seventh demonstration organized by Extinction Rebellion in the same section of the motorway near The Hague’s parliament and main ministry buildings. However, this particular event witnessed the highest number of arrests during a single protest, according to the Dutch news agency ANP.
Anne Kerevers, a 31-year-old postgraduate student, expressed her determination, stating, “We’re going to stay here until they drag us away.” Kerevers emphasized that climate change is an ongoing crisis with a known cause that continues to be subsidized by the government, which she believes needs to cease. Her sentiments were shared with other protesters who demand immediate and substantial climate action.
The demonstration also saw the participation of several Dutch celebrities, including Carice van Houten, renowned for her role as Melisandre in the popular TV series “Game of Thrones.” Van Houten posted a video on Instagram showing herself wearing a red poncho and being drenched by a water cannon. (Int’l Monitoring Desk)
