New date for the protest: join us at the Malieveld on November 25
On Monday, November 25, students and staff from universities and universities of applied sciences will gather at the Malieveld in The Hague to send a powerful message against the severe budget cuts in higher education. Together, we will demonstrate the importance of education and research for the future of the Netherlands. Make your voice heard and join us in The Hague on November 25!
As the Executive Board and deans of Utrecht University, we support this action and encourage students and staff to participate wherever possible. Members of the Executive Board will also attend – we hope to see you there.
Alternative protests
After the November 14 protest unfortunately could not proceed as originally planned, many students and staff mobilized for alternative actions. Protests took place on campuses and in cities, and university leaders from across the country called on the government to halt the budget cuts. The speeches originally planned for Domplein were livestreamed from the House of Representatives – you can watch them back and read a report (in Dutch). As Anton wrote in a blog on DUB (in Dutch): “We were not physically together, but united in our message.”
For the future of education and research
The planned budget cuts put the future of the Netherlands at risk. Investing in science and innovation is essential to enable societal progress. A strong turnout on November 25 will reinforce our message to the government: stop the cuts and choose to support the value of science. Together, we can send a clear signal.
Programme for the day
The protest on November 25 is organized by the FNV labor union, in collaboration with the AOb education union and partners like WOinActie. The program will include various activities, with the main demonstration taking place between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM at the Malieveld in The Hague. We hope for a strong turnout, including from UU.
Protesting During Work or Study Hours
If you have questions about participating during work or study hours: a guideline has been prepared on demonstrations and strikes, which also applies to this day. Please review the guideline in advance if you plan to join.
Sign up and be heard
You can register for the protest via the websites of FNV, AOb and others. You can also sign a petition (in Dutch) and like and share UNL's (Universities of the Netherlands) LinkedIn posts (e.g. this post).
Make your voice heard and bring colleagues and fellow students along!
Executive Board and deans