# Civil unrest in the Netherlands

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/civil-unrest-in-the-netherlands
> Updated: 2026-10-31T19:55:06.000Z. Sources: 44. Developments: 2.

Authorities in several Dutch cities, including The Hague, Maastricht, and Eindhoven, initially went on high alert following social media calls for Gen Z protests that threatened to involve looting and vandalism. In response to these threats, local groups such as ADO Den Haag and MVV supporters pledged to protect businesses, while municipalities issued emergency orders to grant police extra powers.

On October 31, unrest occurred in The Hague, specifically near the Ministry of Finance. While a heavy police presence prevented widespread looting, tensions rose during a confrontation between protesters and approximately 200 ADO Den Haag supporters. During the incident, officers were targeted with heavy fireworks, resulting in the hospitalization of one officer with potential hearing damage. The Mobile Unit intervened to separate the groups near the Korte Voorhout.

Police arrested 34 individuals, many of whom are minors aged 15 to 18, on charges including public violence and disturbing public order. These individuals reportedly traveled from various locations, including Amsterdam and Zwolle. All arrested individuals have since been released.

Mayor Jan van Zanen issued an emergency order covering the city center, the Malieveld, and the area around the central station. In anticipation of violence, many shopkeepers boarded up storefronts, leading to economic losses from lost revenue and security costs. City official Richard de Mos announced an investigation into whether individuals who used social media to incite violence and looting can be held financially liable for damages suffered by local entrepreneurs.

## Claims

- Police arrested 34 people in The Hague following unrest. (reported by 4 sources)
- Social media was used to call for Gen-Z protests and looting. (reported by 4 sources)
- A police officer was hospitalized with potential hearing damage after fireworks were thrown at them. (reported by 4 sources)
- The majority of those arrested were minors between 15 and 18 years old. (reported by 3 sources)
- Mayor Jan van Zanen issued an emergency order for the city center and surrounding areas. (reported by 3 sources)
- Face coverings were prohibited during the unrest. (reported by 3 sources)
- Approximately 200 ADO Den Haag supporters gathered to protect the city. (reported by 3 sources)
- The emergency order was expanded to include the Malieveld and the area around Den Haag Centraal station. (reported by 2 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-10-31: The Hague police arrest 34 following Gen Z protest unrest

Police arrested 34 people, mostly minors, during unrest in The Hague following social media calls for Gen Z protests. Officials are now seeking to hold online instigators liable for business losses.

18 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/the-hague-34-arrests-following-gen-z-protest-unrest

### 2026-10-29: The Hague and Maastricht prepare for potential Gen Z unrest

Dutch cities prepare for potential Gen Z riots following social media calls for looting. Supporters in The Hague and Maastricht have pledged to protect their cities, while retailers board up windows as a precau

32 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ajax-to-face-az-alkmaar-in-eredivisie-clash

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Cite as: Civil unrest in the Netherlands. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/civil-unrest-in-the-netherlands