The Hague: Dutch police clashed with anti-immigration demonstrators in The Hague on Saturday, deploying water cannons and tear gas after a protest spiraled into violence just weeks before the country heads to national elections. Authorities confirmed around 30 arrests, while two police officers were injured during the unrest.
The protest was organized by a far-right activist group pressing for tighter migration policies and stronger border enforcement. Thousands gathered in the city, carrying Dutch flags and banners associated with far-right movements. What began as a political demonstration quickly turned volatile, with some protesters setting fire to a police vehicle and blocking a major highway, bringing traffic in parts of the city to a standstill.
One of the most dramatic incidents occurred when demonstrators targeted the headquarters of the centrist D66 party, smashing windows and vandalizing the property. Local media reported significant damage to the building. D66 leader Rob Jetten swiftly condemned the attack, stating that the violence was an attempt at intimidation by extremists. He stressed that democratic values must not be undermined by mob actions, saying, “They will not succeed in silencing us.”
Geert Wilders, leader of the far-right Freedom Party (PVV) and frontrunner in current opinion polls, had been invited to address the rally but did not attend. Instead, he issued a statement denouncing the violence. Wilders, known for his hardline stance on immigration, called the attacks on police and property “utterly unacceptable,” dismissing the violent agitators as “idiots” who undermined the movement’s credibility.
Police forces faced intense pressure as the crowd turned unruly. Officers responded with crowd-control tactics, including tear gas and a water cannon, to push back demonstrators. Authorities confirmed that more arrests could follow as video footage is reviewed. The police defended their actions as necessary to restore order and ensure public safety amid escalating chaos.
The violent protest underscores the deep divisions in Dutch society over immigration policy. With national elections scheduled for October 29, migration is already one of the most contentious campaign issues. Analysts suggest that the turmoil could have ripple effects, with parties advocating stricter immigration laws potentially benefiting from heightened public concern, while centrist and liberal groups warn against the dangers of polarization and extremism.
The Hague has witnessed heated demonstrations in the past, but Saturday’s violence marked by arson, vandalism, and direct attacks on a political party has raised alarm about the tone of public debate leading up to the elections. As authorities prepare for future protests, the balance between safeguarding democratic freedoms and maintaining public order will remain under sharp scrutiny.