In the Netherlands, the joint list of Socialists and Greens secured a significant victory in the European elections, winning eight out of 31 seats. This success is seen as a strong pro-European signal, countering the anticipated rise of the radical right. Frans Timmermans, leading the coalition, emphasized the importance of this outcome for Europe. Meanwhile, Geert Wilders' Party for Freedom and Democracy gained seven seats, marking a notable increase. Wilders aims to influence European politics from within, aligning with other right-wing parties across Europe. Voter turnout was the highest since 1989, reaching 47%.

The article explores the complexities and challenges faced by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) in processing asylum applications. It highlights the struggle between adhering to strict immigration policies and applying a more humane approach, especially in light of recent political pressures and the aftermath of the benefits scandal. The IND faces operational challenges due to inexperienced staff and a high workload, leading to a higher approval rate for asylum applications. The article features insights from various stakeholders, including IND staff, asylum lawyers, and experts, emphasizing the need for improved training and a more open organizational culture to enhance decision-making processes.

The article examines the challenges and inefficiencies within the Dutch asylum system, focusing on the experiences of asylum seekers at Ter Apel. It highlights the long waiting times, inadequate accommodations, and the strain on the Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst (IND) due to high influxes of asylum seekers. The piece criticizes the government's handling of the situation, including the lack of capacity and resources to process applications timely. Personal stories of asylum seekers like Hani and Yafet Semere illustrate the emotional and practical difficulties faced during the prolonged asylum process. The article calls for more efficient and humane policies to address the growing backlog and improve the asylum system's responsiveness.

Geert Wilders and his far-right Party for Freedom (PVV) have won 37 seats in the Dutch House of Representatives, marking a significant victory. The left-green coalition secured 25 seats, while the ruling liberal-conservatives (VVD) obtained 24 seats. The newly formed centrist party, New Social Contract, gained 20 seats. This election could lead to a major shift in the Netherlands' political landscape after 13 years of right-centrist rule under Mark Rutte. Wilders' party, known for its anti-immigrant and anti-Islam rhetoric, faces challenges in forming a coalition government. Wilders has expressed willingness to collaborate with other political forces, but it remains uncertain if he will find partners to join his government.

Pieter Omtzigt, a former Christian Democrat MP who revealed a child benefits scandal leading to the downfall of Mark Rutte's government, has started a new political party in the Netherlands. His party is leading in opinion polls for the upcoming snap elections. Omtzigt's centrist anti-establishment stance is compared to French President Emmanuel Macron's rise to power with a new centrist party.

The Netherlands is set for a snap general election following the resignation of Prime Minister Mark Rutte. The newly formed NSC, led by Pieter Omtzigt, has emerged as a dominant force, focusing on good governance and social security while opposing further EU integration. The Labour Party and Green Left coalition, led by Frans Timmermans, is also a strong contender. With a record 26 parties running, forming a coalition government will be necessary. Omtzigt's popularity stems from his anti-establishment stance and role in exposing the child benefit scandal. Experts suggest that significant compromises will be required to govern effectively.

Journalists in Gaza are facing extreme hardships and personal losses while reporting on the ongoing conflict. Wael Dahdouh from Al Jazeera lost his family in a bombing, and Rami Ramis describes the dire conditions and lack of resources. The International Press Institute reports that 22 journalists have been killed since the conflict began, with journalists being targeted by the Israeli army and settlers. The humanitarian situation is catastrophic, with severe shortages of basic necessities.

The Syrian government did not appear at the UN International Court of Justice, where Canada and the Netherlands accused it of violating the Convention against Torture. Representatives from both countries presented evidence of torture, sexual violence, and forced disappearances in Syria since 2011. Despite the absence of the Syrian government, the trial aimed to highlight these human rights violations. Protests occurred outside the court, and the case marks the first time Syria is held accountable in an international court. However, media attention was limited due to concurrent global crises.

The International Court of Justice in The Hague is hearing a case brought by Canada and the Netherlands against the Syrian regime for violating the Convention against Torture. Despite no Syrian representatives attending, evidence of torture, sexual violence, and forced disappearances since 2011 was presented. The case aims to halt these abuses and reveal the locations of detainees. This marks the first time Syria is held accountable in an international court. The case has received limited media attention due to concurrent global crises.

Syria did not appear at the International Court of Justice for a public hearing where the country is accused by the Netherlands and Canada of violating the UN Convention against Torture. The Netherlands and Canada are seeking immediate measures to stop torture and reveal detention facilities. Despite Syria's absence, evidence of torture and other abuses since 2011 was presented. Syrian refugees protested outside the court, marking the first time Syria could be held accountable in an international court. The hearing received limited media attention due to the Israeli crisis dominating headlines.