Sketch News

Ballast Nedam: lenders of construction projects hesitate due to climate risks

Major construction company sees increasing climate requirements from banks and insurers on new construction projects and calls for introduction of climate label for homes to maintain the confidence of financiers and encourage sustainable new construction.

Feb. 7, 2025, 7:57 p.m.

79 countries condemn U.S. sanctions against International Criminal Court

The United States has imposed sanctions on the International Criminal Court, which could lead to the crippling of financial services and thus severely hamper the court's day-to-day operations. The Netherlands and other countries are reacting with outrage and are working to find solutions to protect the legal institution.

Feb. 7, 2025, 7:57 p.m.

Does Elon Musk 'coup' with advisory on downsizing government?

Elon Musk is hijacking the country's most sensitive financial data systems and checkbook as leader of the Department Of Government Efficiency, leading to major concerns among the federal government and Congress. Even the intended dismantling of USAID is not without controversy and cannot take place without Congressional approval.

Feb. 6, 2025, 7:57 p.m.

Minister wants to abolish withholding housing costs from minimum wage migrant workers

Minister Van Hijum writes in a letter to the Lower House that employers will no longer be allowed to deduct housing and healthcare costs from the minimum wage of migrant workers starting in 2030. With this, he wants to prevent abuse of this possibility and reduce dependency on employers.

Feb. 6, 2025, 7:57 p.m.

Art theft may cost Netherlands 5.8 million euros if pieces are left out

Stolen top pieces from Romania worth millions highlight importance of insurance for temporary museum exhibits, with Dutch government covering 30% of insured value.

Feb. 6, 2025, 7:57 p.m.

Trump pulls out of diversity policy, officials fear resignation

Federal government in US bans diversity policies after Trump's election, threatening layoffs for officials such as Jeremy Wood who spoke out in favor of affirmative action.