Protesters storm Microsoft data centre construction site in Amsterdam
About 100 demonstrators entered a construction site for a Microsoft data centre in Amsterdam's Sloterdijk district. Several arrests were reported, as activists object to the project's electricity use and Microsoft's activities.
In Amsterdam's Sloterdijk district, around 100 demonstrators entered a construction site where a large data centre is being built for the technology company Microsoft. Organisers said several hundred people took part. Several arrests were reported.
Activists used ladders to climb the perimeter fence and cut an opening so others could get in. Some climbed a construction crane and displayed a banner reading "Fuck AI", while others waved Palestinian flags and held signs accusing Microsoft of supporting genocide.
Police response
Police surrounded the protesters, after which the mayor ordered the demonstration to end. Riot officers then intervened, and several people were reported arrested.
Who is behind the action
The protest was organised by the Dutch activist collective Geef Tegengas, while the environmental campaign group Fossielvrij NL held a separate mobilisation. Campaigners oppose the development because of its expected electricity consumption, its impact on housing plans and concerns about Microsoft's activities.
The project is being developed by Pure Data Centres for Microsoft. It involves three towers about 85 metres high, with an investment of more than $1 billion. Protesters argue the facilities could use as much electricity as all Amsterdam households combined, a claim that has not been independently established.
The action was part of an international campaign against large-scale data centres, with demonstrations planned in several European countries. Both Pure Data Centres and Microsoft said they respect peaceful protest, but urged demonstrators to avoid unlawful actions.
