legislation

Dutch lawmakers are considering a ban on slaughter without stunning, which could affect halal and kosher meat availability, while also debating emergency funding for the nearly bankrupt Zeehondencentrum Pieterburen seal shelter. Both issues pit animal welfare against religious freedom and financial responsibility.

Spain is rocked by mass protests after parliament rejected emergency housing decrees, sparked by the eviction of an 87-year-old. With snap elections looming, the crisis exposes deep housing affordability issues that also affect expats across Europe.

Prime Minister Jetten wants a comprehensive agreement on the 2027 budget before Prinsjesdag, but opposition parties are demanding billions in changes. The minority cabinet has just over a week to strike a deal or risk months of uncertainty.

The Dutch minority cabinet has one week to secure parliamentary backing for its 2027 budget, with opposition parties divided on whether the government should commit to left or right coalition support. Finance Minister Heinen insists a deal is near, but Pro and JA21 demand the cabinet choose sides while ChristenUnie and 50Plus prefer case-by-case cooperation.

The Dutch minority cabinet refuses to commit to left or right coalition support, with ChristenUnie and 50Plus backing a case-by-case approach. Meanwhile, tractor protests escalate after a fatal highway accident, prosecutors announce new enforcement, and a coalition of employers demands €34 billion for infrastructure.

The OM will prosecute tractor drivers who use highways during protests, following a fatal A59 crash. Meanwhile, hundreds of farmers marched through Drenthe demanding action against nitrogen policy, but all twelve mayors refused to support them.

Prime Minister Jetten's minority government is pursuing a flexible approach to securing parliamentary majorities, with ChristenUnie and 50Plus rejecting pressure to commit to either left or right blocs. The cabinet continues preparing the budget as coalition negotiations remain uncertain.