Assen, Netherlands Embraces Controversial New Local Ordinances
The Dutch city of Assen is making headlines with its revamped municipal code, the Algemene Plaatselijke Verordening (APV), sparking debate over civil liberties and public safety.
This updated code introduces three new restrictions, targets one existing restriction for removal, and aims to address concerns about open air sleeping, public disguise, and shoplifting.
One of the most contentious changes involves a proposed ban on sleeping outdoors in public spaces. While initially supported by the city council, the ban was ultimately rejected thanks to intervention from the ChristenUnie party.
“"Dakloosheid los je niet op door dwingende maatregelen, zoals zo’n verbod. Maar dat doe je met preventie en adequate opvang", aldus CU-raadslid Setz," said Jerke Setz, a representative for the ChristenUnie.
Setz, concerned about targeting vulnerable individuals, argued that addressing homelessness requires prevention and adequate shelter options, rather than punitive measures. Assen has faced criticism for a lack of sufficient shelters, raising questions about the practicality and ethical implications of the proposed ban. The city council ultimately sided with Setz’s position, opting for a more integrated approach to homelessness.
Another controversial addition to the APV is a ban on face coverings in public. This measure, championed by the VVD party, aims to deter crime and promote public safety.
“De aanblik van personen met bivakmutsen en maskers kan intimiderend overkomen op omstanders," stated Michiel Hasslacher, leader of the VVD faction.
Drawn from observations of unrest during demonstrations at the University of Amsterdam, Hasslacher believes facial coverings cultivate feelings of unease and can facilitate criminal activity. However, the ChristenUnie expressed reservations, viewing the ban as an infringement on personal freedom.
"Winkelen in een burka in Assen, kan dan niet meer? Of iemand die zich verbergt achter een sjaal, omdat ‘t ie een lelijke pukkel heeft, is die dan meteen verdacht?" asked Setz.
Despite these reservations, the face-covering ban secured widespread support and was included in the final APV draft.
To combat shoplifting, the updated code targets items designed to evade security measures, such as merchandise bags lined with aluminum foil to bypass alarms.
Additionally, carrying tools that could be used for theft, like crowbars or pliers, is now prohibited, unless individuals can demonstrate legitimate purposes, such as repair work or conducting a renovation.
Finally, the revised APV strengthens regulations regarding the accessibility of sidewalks for visually impaired individuals.
"Mensen met een visuele beperking moeten zich veilig en zelfstandig kunnen bewegen in Assen. Daarom is het noodzakelijk om duidelijke regels in te voeren en hierop te kunnen handhaven," said Paul van der Kolk-Kruithof, representing GroenLinks.
Town authorities are committed to ensuring unobstructed access for people with visual impairments, making it an offense to impede these vital pathways.
With these new ordinances, Assen seeks to balance public safety and individual freedom. However, the ongoing debate highlights the tension inherent in crafting public policy that addresses complex social issues.
2024-12-01 07:23:00
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## Assen’s APV: balancing Public Safety and Civil Liberties?
**world Today news Exclusive Interview with Dr. Anna van Dijk, Legal Expert and Professor of Constitutional Law**
**World Today News:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. van Dijk. Assen’s new municipal code, the APV, has generated a lot of buzz. Can you give our readers a brief overview of the key changes?
**Dr. van Dijk:** Certainly.Assen’s updated APV introduces several notable changes. First,it strengthens measures against open air sleeping,making it more tough for individuals to camp or bed down in public spaces. Second, it introduces stricter regulations regarding public disguise, possibly limiting things like wearing masks or full-face coverings.it aims to crack down on shoplifting by expanding the city’s authority to issue fines and bans.
Conversely, the city has removed an existing restriction that prohibited begging.
**World Today News:** These changes seem to target specific groups, such as homeless individuals and marginalized communities. Do you believe these measures strike a balance between public safety and individual rights?
**Dr. van Dijk:** That’s the crux of the debate,isn’t it? While the city argues that these measures aim to improve public order and safety,concerns are raised about thier potential impact on vulnerable populations,notably the homeless. Banning open air sleeping essentially criminalizes homelessness and could further marginalize individuals already facing hardship.
Similarly, the restrictions on public disguise raise concerns about freedom of expression and the right to anonymity.While public safety is paramount, it’s important to ensure that measures aren’t overly broad and infringe on fundamental rights.
**World Today News:** What about the removal of the begging ban?
**Dr. van Dijk:** This move is interesting.
it appears to be an attempt to address concerns about targeting poverty and freedom of expression. Though, critics argue it doesn’t go far enough. They advocate for more thorough social welfare programs to address the root causes of begging rather than simply removing a restrictive measure.
**World today News:** What are the potential legal challenges Assen might face regarding the APV?
**Dr. van Dijk:** Several legal challenges are possible. Groups advocating for homeless rights might challenge the open air sleeping ban on grounds of disproportionate impact and violation of the right to shelter.
Similarly, organizations defending civil liberties could challenge the public disguise restrictions on the grounds of freedom of expression and assembly.
The success of these challenges will depend on the specific wording of the ordinances and the legal arguments presented.
**World Today News:** Looking forward, what are the potential implications of Assen’s APV for other Dutch municipalities?
**Dr. van Dijk:** assen’s APV could set a precedent for other cities grappling with similar social issues. It remains to be seen whether other municipalities will follow suit and adopt similar ordinances. If legal challenges arise, the outcome will likely influence the broader debate about balancing public safety and civil liberties in the Netherlands and beyond.
**World Today News:** Dr. van Dijk, thank you for your insightful analysis. This is certainly a complex and evolving situation that deserves further scrutiny.
