On September 22, 2025, politicians protested against femicide by placing their shoes outside the Tweede Kamer. This symbolic act, led by Sarah Dobbe (SP), Hanneke van der Werf (D66), and demissionary state secretary Arno Rutte (VVD), aims to draw attention to the issue ahead of a committee meeting on the topic.
- Shoes symbolize protest against femicide.
- Initiative note aims to address femicide issues.
- Call for a single minister overseeing violence.
- Additional funding for women's shelters proposed.
- Men's alliance to promote awareness and change.
- New laws to criminalize psychological violence.
The protest coincides with a proposal by Songül Mutluer of GroenLinks-PvdA, who seeks to expedite the punishment of “red flags” related to femicide, including stalking and psychological violence. Mutluer advocates for a single minister to oversee issues of violence against women, currently managed by three different ministries.
King Willem-Alexander highlighted femicide in his recent Troonrede, marking a significant acknowledgment. The demissionary cabinet announced an additional €12 million to expand women’s shelters. However, Mutluer aims to secure €70 million during the upcoming budget discussions in November, which would fund a 24/7 helpline and enhance enforcement against street harassment.
- Mutluer plans to propose €70 million for femicide prevention programs.
- A 24/7 helpline similar to the suicide prevention hotline is under consideration.
- Legislation to criminalize psychological violence is expected next year.
- Current initiatives include a GPS tracking system for victims and a campaign titled “Is this love.”
These developments indicate a growing governmental focus on addressing femicide and related issues, with potential changes in legislation and funding aimed at improving victim support and prevention.
