An estimated 10,000 people gathered in Amsterdam’s Dam Square on Saturday to protest against racism, fascism, and the increasing influence of far-right ideologies. The demonstration, organized by Comité 21 Maart, followed the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, held every year on March 21.
Diverse Support and Powerful Messages
The event attracted support from groups like Amnesty International, Kick Out Zwarte Piet, Another Jewish Voice, and the Dutch Palestine Committee. Protesters held signs reading “Never Again,” drawing comparisons to the rise of fascism in the 20th century and warning of similar dangers today.
Many carried flags representing Palestine and Turkey, expressing solidarity with global struggles, including opposition to the arrest of Ekrem İmamoğlu in Turkey. Concerns about Dutch domestic politics were also evident, particularly after the country’s recent political shift to the right, with a coalition government formed by four conservative parties.
Widespread Protests Across France
In France, nearly 91,000 people took to the streets on the same day, according to the Interior Ministry. Paris hosted the largest rally, attracting over 21,000 protesters demanding an end to systemic racism and discrimination.
The demonstrators criticized the political climate, accusing it of encouraging hate speech and extremism. Protests targeted government policies that increase border controls and marginalize minority groups. The rally in Paris turned tense, with riot police intervening to control the crowd, resulting in two arrests and three injuries, including one police officer.
Protesters also showed strong support for Palestinian rights, with placards accusing President Emmanuel Macron of enabling ongoing violence in Gaza. Similar protests took place in Lyon and Toulouse, further highlighting the nationwide demand for change.
A Global Call for Justice
These protests coincided with the United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, established in memory of the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre. During that event, South African police opened fire on peaceful demonstrators protesting apartheid laws, killing 69 people.
Since 1966, this day has served as a reminder to combat racism and authoritarianism and to promote equality and unity worldwide. Demonstrations like those in Amsterdam and France reflect a broader movement aimed at resisting far-right movements, defending democratic rights, and supporting oppressed communities everywhere.