Inlay

The English version of openrijk.nl/en offers essential government reads for all non-Dutch speakers. This is not an official government account! read more about us: https://openrijk.nl/en/missie https://openrijk.nl/en/disclaimer

The black tern is an endangered bird species in the Netherlands that faces a shortage of natural nesting spots. To assist these birds after their long 4,000-kilometer migration from West Africa, the Dutch Forestry Commission, also known as Staatsbosbeheer, has installed special nesting rafts in the Gelderse Poort. These artificial structures provide a safe environment for the birds to breed. Because the terns prefer nesting on floating plants like the water soldier, the loss of these plants due to water quality issues has made human intervention necessary. Currently, about 140 breeding pairs rely on these rafts across various locations, including the Oude Waal near Nijmegen. Long-term efforts are focused on restoring natural plant populations to eventually replace the rafts. Local residents can observe a colony of 30 breeding pairs from the dike in the Ooijpolder. Staatsbosbeheer is hosting information sessions on June 15 and 18, 2026, to share more about these birds.

On June 11, the police searched a house on Plataanlaan in Winterswijk. During the search, officers found a large amount of cigarettes, soft drugs, hard drugs, and a firearm. The person living in the house was arrested by the police and is still being held for questioning. This investigation began after the police received a tip about a shipment of illegal cigarettes. Authorities are now asking residents to look out for suspicious activities in their neighborhoods, such as frequent visitors late at night. You can report suspicious behavior safely and anonymously through official police channels.

The 20th European Sustainable Energy Week recently ended after three days of important discussions. This event brought together 2,500 people in person and many more online to talk about clean energy. One major event was a special talk with Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen and his predecessors. They shared their experiences in managing energy policy. Furthermore, Commissioner Dubravka Šuica introduced the T-MED initiative. This project aims to boost renewable energy and clean technology in the Southern Mediterranean region. The event also celebrated leaders in clean energy with the EUSEW Awards. The RE-LEAF project from Belgium won for its work on affordable home renovations. Other winners included projects from Dublin and Vienna.

A resident struggled to pay her water tax after being denied full remission. Although the Hoogheemraadschap Hollands Noorderkwartier initially rejected her request, they argued that she should have applied for social assistance to cover her costs. The resident, who lives on a very low income, felt that the decision was unfair and contacted the National Ombudsman for help with her case. The Ombudsman investigated and found that the tax board was wrong to blame the resident for not seeking social aid. Following this intervention, the water board granted full remission and apologized to the citizen.

The city of Rotterdam has revealed the winners of its annual Architecture Prize. The main jury award went to SAWA, a new apartment building made entirely of wood. This project is praised for its focus on nature and high-quality living spaces for both people and local wildlife. Additionally, the people of Rotterdam chose their favorite project for the public prize. The award went to the Sportpaviljoen Steeds Hooger. This building was transformed from an old sports canteen into a modern, sustainable clubhouse. It shows that reusing existing structures can be a very successful choice.

A jewelry store on Willemstraat in Rijswijk was burglarized in the early hours of June 13. Two suspects in dark clothing forced open the front door and stole several items before fleeing the scene on a scooter. Police are currently searching for the perpetrators. They are asking witnesses or residents with camera footage to come forward to assist.

Although it has been raining recently, the De Stichtse Rijnlanden Water Authority warns that the region still faces a drought. Water manager Lotje Räkers explains that drought is measured by the total water balance over a long period, rather than just daily rainfall. Even when it rains, the ground often remains too dry to fully recover. The area around the Utrechtse Heuvelrug is especially vulnerable because its high elevation makes it difficult to bring in water from rivers and canals. The region relies heavily on groundwater and rain. Because the previous year was very dry, groundwater levels are still too low. This creates risks for nature, agriculture, and the stability of the ground. Currently, a ban on extracting surface water is in place for the flanks of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug to protect the remaining water. Residents are encouraged to use water carefully while officials monitor the situation and work to manage the water supply.

The municipality of Groningen has released a new coalition agreement titled 'Unconventional and Connected'. Five political parties aim to build a greener and more social city. They want to work closely with local residents, entrepreneurs, and community groups to solve problems in everyday life. The plan focuses on creating strong neighborhoods and supporting people who need help. Despite financial challenges from national government decisions, the city plans to continue investing in housing, culture, and sports. Officials promise to put the needs of residents first in all future projects.

Het Centraal Planbureau (CPB) heeft onlangs onderzoek gedaan naar de belastingdruk op inkomen en vermogen in Nederland. De conclusie is dat inkomensongelijkheid toeneemt en dat het vermogen van huishoudens steeds vaker afhangt van wat zij zelf of hun ouders al bezaten. Het huidige belastingsysteem compenseert deze verschillen nauwelijks. Het onderzoek leidde tot veel discussie over wat een eerlijk belastingstelsel is. Sommige mensen vinden dat vermogensheffingen niet eerlijk zijn als er nog geen winst is gemaakt. Anderen wijzen erop dat belastingen nodig zijn voor overheidsuitgaven en dat belastingvoordelen voor de één altijd een hogere rekening voor de ander betekenen. Het is vaak de vraag vanuit welk perspectief we naar belastingen kijken. Pieter Hasekamp, directeur van het CPB, benadrukt dat bedrijven zelf geen belasting betalen; uiteindelijk komt de rekening altijd bij de burger terecht. Het CPB zal volgende maand meer inzicht geven in hoe mensen denken over erfbelasting, een onderwerp dat vaak sterke reacties oproept.

On June 11, a large fight broke out at a school located on the Lijnbaan in Goes. Police arrived quickly to stop the brawl involving dozens of youths. Officers used batons and a police dog to bring the situation under control and ensure safety for everyone present. Two people were injured during the incident, with one person needing hospital care. Police arrested six individuals, including three minors, and are currently investigating the cause of the conflict. The suspects come from different towns in the region, including Terneuzen, Middelburg, and Goes.