COMMONS

Squatting in Amsterdam refers to the practice of occupying unused or abandoned buildings in the city and using them as a place to live, work or organize social and cultural events. Squatting has a long history in Amsterdam, dating back to the 1960s and 1970s when the city experienced a housing crisis.

In the past, squatters in Amsterdam were able to claim legal rights to a property after living in it for a certain period of time, which is known as “kraken” in Dutch. However, the Dutch government has since made squatting illegal in 2010, with penalties including fines and imprisonment.

Despite the legal consequences, there are still a number of squats in Amsterdam, particularly in areas such as the Jordaan, De Pijp, and Nieuwmarkt. Squats often serve as creative and alternative spaces for artists, musicians, and activists, as well as a way to provide affordable housing in a city with high living costs. However, it is important to note that squatting is a controversial issue in Amsterdam and beyond, with some arguing that it is a necessary response to housing shortages and social inequality, while others view it as an illegal and disruptive activity that undermines property rights and public safety.