Starting next Friday and until early December, due to renovation work, trains travelling through the Schiphol Airport Station will experience major disruptions — but fear not! We have information on how to deal with it.
According to the NS, the renovation work will take place on these specific dates:
From Friday, 8 November, to Sunday, 10 November, and
From Saturday, 16 November to Tuesday, 3 December.
During this period, trains will either run less often, be delayed, or be cancelled altogether — depending on the day.
Here’s the specific travel advice for each date. 👇
Almost no trains for two weekends
The most severe disruptions will happen on the second and last weekends of November —that is, from Friday, 8 to Sunday, 10, and Friday, 29 to Sunday, 1 December.
On these days, no trains will run between Schiphol Airport and Amsterdam Zuid, and only half of the regular trains will run between Schiphol Airport and Amsterdam Centraal, Leiden Centraal and Rotterdam Centraal.
To deal with the Schiphol-Zuid disruption, NS recommends that passengers travel via Amsterdam Lelylaan instead.
From there, they can reach Zuid using the metro, without buying any additional tickets: between Lelylaan and Zuid, NS tickets will exceptionally be valid on the metro as well.
And fewer trains on these days
The other dates you should note down are Saturday, 16 to Thursday, 28 November, as well as Monday, 2 and Tuesday, 3 December.
On these dates, slightly less disruptive work will take place, meaning that trains will still run, but there will be far fewer of them.
As such, passengers travelling from, to, or via Schiphol Airport should expect crowded or delayed trains, and plan accordingly.
Why is this happening?
The disruptions are due to a major maintenance project — called “Major Maintenance Schiphol” (creative) — carried out by ProRail to renovate the tracks and tunnels at and around Schiphol.
The project has been going on since 2022 and is expected to be completed by 2028.
What could they possibly be building that’s taking so long, you ask? Well, it’s no Sistine Chapel, but it’s still pretty impressive work:
General advice
Generally, NS advises passengers to either avoid the Schiphol Airport station altogether by using diversion routes, or at least avoid the rush hours (7:30-10 PM and 4-6:30 PM).
If you must travel to Schiphol during this period, you should take into account longer travel times, and consult the NS App or the special “Work at Schiphol 2024” page for the most up-to-date information.
Cheap real estate is hard to come by in the Netherlands, so when you see a listing for an entire corner house under €200,000, you do a double take. 👀
Well, apparently, somewhere in the country you can still snag a bargain like this.
As RTL writes, a (charming?) 24 m² self-contained huisje, within walking distance of the city centre, AND with a private parking space, is on sale in Groningen for €175,000.
The only issue? You can’t really live in it… yet?
There’s your front door! So far, so good… Image: Google Maps/Screenshot
A dream home — or nightmare fuel?
The little house on Ypenmolendrift comes with some unique modern art on the wall (graffiti), beautiful exposed brick, and three windows (boarded-up, but still!) — so, what’s the catch?
Well… the house needs a LOT of TLC.
Do you see the potential? Image: Google Maps/Screenshot
And by that, we mean a complete overhaul. Right now, it’s basically four walls and a roof. No, literally. You can check out the Funda listing and see for yourself.
Oh, and there’s one more thing we should probably mention before you throw your money into this: the building is protected by the city, so you’ll need to follow strict renovation rules.
But hey, once it’s all fixed up, you could always rent it out to a poor international student for €1,300 a month to cover your mortgage. 😉
Would you buy this gem in the centre of Groningen? Share your thoughts in the comments!
But what about now? And how did it start? Let’s take a history dive, shall we?
America and the Netherlands: We’re old mates!
The relationship began almost as soon as the United States was formed: as early as 1782, John Adams, one of the Founding Fathers, travelled to The Hague on a diplomatic mission.
The Netherlands became the second country, after France, to recognise the new nation (though a Dutch governor had already recognised the US without consent from the government).
Adams then purchased a house in The Hague, which became the first American embassy in the world and stands to this day.
However, in 2018 the US embassy moved to a brand-spanking-new location:
By the dawn's early light, the U.S. Marine Security Guards raised our flag over #JohnAdamsPark1, our new Embassy in Wassenaar, for the first time. pic.twitter.com/JMHohUfwbj
During the Second World War, the Dutch government-in-exile was at war in Europe. At the time, the Dutch also controlled the East Indies colony, which was rich in resources like oil and rubber.
The Japanese empire wished to secure this supply and sought to invade the East Indies. And as tensions rose, the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, was a tipping point.
The Dutch declared war on Japan the very next day — even before the US did (according to reports, the Dutch government in London actually sent the proclamation of war before the news of the attack reached them).
Freedom!
More than 150 years after the Dutch recognised American independence, the US took the opportunity to return the favour.
Although it was the Canadian army that liberated the biggest parts of the country by May 5, 1945, the US played a key role in the liberation and eventual victory of the Allied forces.
The plan provided billions of dollars in economic assistance to countries in Western Europe. The motive was to set up and preserve institutions of free trade and liberal democracy.
As a consequence, the US and the Netherlands still share a similar outlook and value system in politics and economics.
George Marshall in 1947. Image: Unknown/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0
Economy
Currently, the two countries are close partners in trade and policy. The US is the largest foreign investor in the Netherlands, and the Netherlands is the third-largest foreign investor in the US.
The Dutch have also supported NATO’s war efforts in Korea, the Middle East, and the Balkans. With Brexit, the Netherlands is now perhaps the most transatlantic-leaning member of the EU.
However, the two countries have, of course, also had some sharp divergences.
Surprise! We have differences too
Sure, talking about American-Dutch relations, there have been some bones of contention along the way, most prominently the tolerant Dutch attitude towards soft drugs as opposed to the hard-line sometimes taken by the US.
The winds of political change under Trump created further discord, with the Dutch for example remaining strong supporters of the pro-choice movement on the international stage while American policy shifted to a pro-life focus.
A recent highlight in American-Dutch relations
Back in 2018, the appointment of Pete Hoekstra as Dutch ambassador really brought American-Dutch relations into focus.
The Trump administration had sharply diverged from the long-term American Netherlands policy, which soured relations between the two countries for a while.
This was exemplified by the now infamous exchange between Hoekstra and Dutch journalists, during which they confronted him about his claims of supposed fire and fury (pun intended) in Muslim-dominated areas in the Netherlands.
One journalist, in particular, offered Hoekstra a piquant reminder of the power of a free press by saying — “This is the Netherlands, you have to answer questions.”
Where do we go from here?
The history of American-Dutch relations, of course, extends well beyond any single incident.
Where does this friendship go from here? The imminent elections make this question all the more pressing.
Anything to add on American-Dutch Relations? Tell us in the comments below!
In early October, doctors from 82 Dutch hospitals compared the numbers of fatbike accidents recorded across their emergency rooms (ERs) — and the results are… concerning.
As RTL reports, the data points to nearly 100 accidents per week.
This confirms a long-held suspicion: the Netherlands has a fatbike problem. 😬
Let’s talk numbers
According to data collected by participating doctors, a total of 1,291 people were admitted to the emergency room after bicycle accidents during the first week of October.
While most accidents involved traditional bikes without pedal assistance (715) or regular electric bikes (480), 96 of them involved fatbikes.
Given that there are significantly fewer fatbikes on the streets compared to regular (e-)bikes, these numbers are alarmingly high. Even more concerning is that nearly half of the accidents involved children aged 12 to 15.
As expected, accidents involving fatbikes also tend to result in more severe injuries, with fatbikers requiring hospitalisation 22% more often than regular cyclists.
Aanrijding auto – fatbike. Bestuurder fatbike naar ziekenhuis. Hoofdletsel. 😏 pic.twitter.com/9uRlvoOTHb
A quick math exercise is enough to paint a pretty bleak picture.
“Assuming this week was an average week, the rough estimate is that 5,000 fat bikers are treated in the ER each year,” the spokesperson for VeiligheidNL tells RTL.
That is a far cry from the estimates from previous data: last year, the recorded victims of fatbike accidents were just 75.
The new data, then, confirms the urgency of restricting fatbike use by imposing a helmet requirement and an age limit, as recently planned by the cabinet.
The government has given Minister of Transport Barry Madlener until Christmas to officialise these plans.
Do you think we need stricter regulations for fatbikes? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Last Thursday, police in Amstelveen arrested a 37-year-old man on suspicion of animal abuse. He is accused of multiple acts of sexual assault against a pony.
As reported by AT5, the disturbing incidents are said to have occurred in a meadow on Amsteldijk-Zuid, Amstelveen.
‘Suspicious circumstances’
In an Instagram post, the local police states that an investigation was launched after the pony’s owner found the animal in “suspicious circumstances” in October.
This prompted the animal police to investigate further, reviewing surveillance footage that ultimately led to the suspect’s identification and arrest.
According to RTL, police have declined to specify the condition in which the pony was found or provide details about the nature of the abuse, only stating that the suspect is accused of “indecent acts.”
The man remains in custody and will soon appear before an examining magistrate, who will determine whether he will remain detained.
From zooming to work in style to upping your fitness and reducing your carbon footprint, there are many reasons why e-bikes are an ideal form of transport.
The Dutch and their love for biking is nothing new — in fact, Dutchies probably cycle more than they walk. It’s no surprise then to hear that the electric bicycle (e-bike) has been stirring up a storm in the Netherlands as of late.
Sustainable, fashionable, accessible, fast — and all on two wheels? Sign the Dutch up. In fact, sign us internationals up too! So, ehm, how do we get one (that doesn’t break the bank?)
That’s where Upway comes in. Putting the above values into practice, Upway is an online platform where you can score an affordable and completely refurbished e-bike.
Have you considered buying a refurbished e-bike instead of a new one? Upway knows how to save you money. Image: Freepik
Purchasing a brand new e-bike — is it worth it?
It can be intimidating to upgrade your traditional bike to an electric one before you glide your way through town and conquer miles on the road.
Thankfully though, it doesn’t have to be difficult.
There are many places you can buy an e-bike: online, secondhand, straight from the manufacturer, through bicycle subscription schemes, or the go-to: bike shops.
However, when selecting an e-bike, you have to consider factors, such as:
Is the e-bike suitable for your needs? It can get confusing with all the brands, sizes, styles, and features of an electric bike.
What’s the quality of the battery? It’s important to get an e-bike with a high-quality battery that won’t drain quickly.
Have you considered the high maintenance and repair costs? E-bikes require more expensive spare parts and maintenance. If anything needs replacing or repairing, it won’t be goedkoop (cheap).
And most importantly…
How about that price tag? Usually, e-bikes cost more than your average bike, with brand-new models costing more than a few months’ rent — echt niet fijn! (really not nice!).
So, is it really worth it to buy a brand-new e-bike? That all depends on how much you’re willing to spend.
However, if you find the price of a brand new e-bike far too high — as many people do — this doesn’t mean your e-bike journey is over.
This is where Upway can save you and your savings: they are the first platform to launch an online marketplace dedicated to restored, affordable e-bikes. 🚴🏻♀️ While a brand-new e-bike may not be worth it, a more accessible refurbished one may be just right!
Buying a refurbished e-bike in the Netherlands — save money and meet Upway
Upway is a French startup that was founded in 2021. It started by selling refurbished electric bikes in France, Germany, and Belgium and it’s eindelijk (finally) on the Dutch market too.
The company not only believes that e-bikes are a great way to reduce CO2 emissions, but that cycling should be an experience that takes you “quickly, comfortably and effortlessly” to anywhere you want to go.
Does the price tag of a brand-spanking new electric bicycle make you cringe? 😬 Upway tackles this drawback by offering high-quality refurbished bicycles that won’t hurt your savings.
That’s right, they market e–bikes that are a whopping 60% cheaper compared to new ones.
How? Upway completely overhauls previously owned e-bikes by checking the bikes after use, repairing them as needed, and putting them back up for sale.
The goal of the young brand is clear — to make e-bikes affordable and accessible for everyone. For less than €1000, you can get your hands on a refurbished e-bike that will make you a true, sustainable speedy McBreezy in no time.
Affordable, accessible, and sustainable: refurbished e-bikes are the way to go! Image: Depositphotos
Who says you have to give up style?
Whether you’re running a quick errand, taking your kids to school, cycling through nature, or doing a morning commute by train, Upway offers plenty of choices for every type of cyclist.
And nee, you don’t have to cycle looking like you’re on a budget either. Upway can give you that “cool look” without breaking a sweat the next time you cycle over a bridge.
In fact, they stock top e-bike brands, such as Gazelle, Riese & Müller, and Giant.
Not your usual online marketplace
When it comes to online marketplaces, sometimes you have to do a bit of gambling. It can be risky to buy any used item online. You have to ask yourself: do I trust this website? Is the seller reliable?
Unlike other online marketplaces, with Upway, you don’t have to worry about this.
Upway it a legitimate and reliable online marketplace. Image: Freepik
A seller you can trust
When it comes to buying an e-bike online or second-hand, there is a real risk of scams. With Upway, you can relax: reliable and trustworthy? Ja, en nog een ja! (Yes, and yes again!)
Customers want to know that they’re not just getting an affordable and high-quality e-bike, but also a safe one that delivers and meets their expectations. With Upway, it’s a “partner you can trust.”
The company aims to make its platform a marketplace for the largest selection of e-bikes, providing customers comfort in knowing that every product has officially been certified by leading mechanics in the industry and will be ready to bike safely upon arrival.
Where does Upway get their refurbished e-bikes, you might ask? Upway has developed a fast procedure for its own purchase of used e-bikes: the company will buy a used e-bike from individual owners who want to get rid of their bike.
They also acquire some of their e-bikes from third-party retailer bike shops, alongside e-bike fleets and rental companies that upgrade the lineup every few years.
An expert-guided safety check keeps you safe
Upway works with a 20-point inspection process, which means that a mechanic thoroughly checks that there is no structural damage to essential components.
If anything needs to be replaced or repaired, you can rest assured that your e-bike will be delivered to you in the best quality.
Sustainable and also looks cool? You’ll be zooming in through the Netherlands in style! Image: Freepik
Geen stress when deciding on the e-bike of your dreams
Buying an e-bike online can be a bit of a gamble. What if it doesn’t sit right once you’ve already bought it? Or what if you change your mind about owning an e-bike altogether?
Geen probleem — Upway has a 14-day trial period, during which you can make returns if needed. You’ll be reimbursed once Upway has received your return shipment. All you have to do is make sure the e-bike is in the same condition you received it in, and that it’s in the original packaging.
Ready to purchase a wallet-friendly e-bike? Upway’s online marketplace makes it an easy and accessible experience. Check out their huge range of refurbished e-bikes and enjoy your new wheels!
An online marketplace with a warranty
If you’ve decided to keep your Upway e-bike after the 14-day period, you can continue to be stress-free after purchasing, as they provide customers with a standard one-year warranty.
The warranty covers the battery, the frame, the motor, and the general electronics. This means that if anything happens to your e-bike in the next 12 months after your purchase, there is no need to panic — Upway has got you covered.
All the e-bikes listed on the website are available immediately and are delivered to your doorstep in the Netherlands in less than a week. If you see a DHL, PostNL, or UPS outside your door, that’s your e-bike waiting for you.
So, go ahead and join the e-bike boom. Take your time browsing, and weighing your options, the right wheels are out there waiting for you — and they don’t have to break the bank.
Do you have experience with buying an e-bike online? Tell us about your experience in the comments!
Brush up on your Queen’s English and get your favourite tea mugs ready! From February 10, going from Amsterdam to London with the Eurostar will be a breeze again.
With the construction work disrupting the line since June 15 coming to an end, passengers will soon be able to travel to London directly again, reports NOS.
Fast and smooth
From February 10, UK-bound passengers will partake in the much-missed joy of direct, hassle-free train travel.
This means that the journey will also be faster, taking just under four hours instead of almost five.
And that’s not all! Passengers will also be able to enjoy the comforts of the new and improved Amsterdam Centraal terminal, featuring more space and shops, a coffee corner, and a brand-new lounge.
A few chaotic months
Eurostar and the Netherlands have been through a bit of a rough patch this year.
Before the summer, Eurostar had announced that due to major renovations at its Amsterdam Centraal terminal, the three daily trains to London would be disrupted until early 2025.
The train company had initially considered suspending the service altogether, but after receiving much criticism, it opted for an alternative solution: making a stopover in Brussels.
As a result, over the past months, passengers have been taking a little detour, which also included having to briefly get off the train in Brussels for a passport check, adding some 45 minutes to their journey.
Meanwhile, trains travelling in the opposite direction (London-Amsterdam) were spared from the disruption and continued running directly.
Thankfully, we can soon wave “ta ta for now” to this era of chaotic travel. 👋
Almost every international in the Netherlands has become well-acquainted with the terminals of Schiphol Airport, which means we’ve also adjusted to the ticket prices.
However, you may get a shock when you book your next flight.
Schiphol has announced that over the next three years, it will charge airlines 37% more for the use of its ports.
And you know what that means — passengers will have to help foot the bill.
Barin, the airline industry association, tells the NOS that “this will make Schiphol one of the most expensive airports in Europe… Ticket prices will also go up and we are worried about that.”
Ok, how much more will I have to pay?
According to Schiphol, airlines will have to fork out an additional €15 per passenger in order to help cover the extra costs.
However, whether this €15 will be passed directly down to the passenger is another question.
The airport will also charge more for noisier aircraft, which means you could expect to pay more if the plane you’re flying in happens to be noisier than others.
Has Schiphol given a solid number for just how much ticket prices will increase by?
Nee. It looks like we’ll have to discover that on our own the next time we decide to book flights.
Why is Schiphol doing this?
According to Schiphol, it isn’t legally allowed to make a profit from the amount it charges for port usage. Instead, the money must go towards the improvement of the airport.
What sort of improvement are we talking about? According to the airport, “Schiphol is making the necessary investments in good infrastructure, better service to passengers and airlines and improved working conditions possible.”
However, the airport also cites increased interest rates and high inflation as part of the reason for the hike in prices — something that we are all feeling right now.
What do you think of Schiphol’s price increase? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
The Zaan region, just a stone’s throw from Amsterdam, offers a beautiful blend of Dutch history, nature, and modern charm.
It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city but still offers lots to explore for a weekend trip. Let’s check out this two days itinerary to give you some inspo. ✨
What is the Zaan region?
First things first, let’s talk about what the Zaan region, or what the Zaanstreek, even is.
The region is in the northern part of the Netherlands, close to Amsterdam. It’s named after the Zaan River, and famous for its historic windmills, wooden houses, and traditional architecture.
It also has a very rich history, as it played a vital role during the Dutch Golden Age, becoming one of the first industrialised areas in the world.
All in all, the Zaan region is the perfect spot to dive into all things Dutch, from old-timey windmills to lush nature and quaint architecture.
For the best insider tips on what to do, see, or eat, in the Zaan region, check out Zaans.nl. Their website has the best information on how to enjoy the Zaan region — all in English. ☀️
Day one: Get acquainted with Zaandam
We recommend starting your Zaans weekend by exploring all of the most popular spots. 👇
Start the day at the iconic Zaanse Schans
When in the Zaanstreek, a visit to the Zaanse Schans is an absolute must — so why not kick off your trip at this postcard-perfect location?
A must-visit when in the Netherlands. Image: Depositphotos
The open-air museum is filled with windmills, cheese, and quaint architecture as far as the eye can see.
Whether you’re here for the history or just looking to get that perfect Instagram shot, the Zaanse Schans’ quintessential Dutchness has got you covered.
Enjoy a lunch by the canal
After soaking in the charm of the Zaanse Schans, it’s time to head to Zaandam and refuel with a relaxing canal-side lunch.
For something cosy, check out Het Zaanse Pannenkoekpaleis, which sells delicious pannenkoeken (Dutch pancakes), ice cream, and other sweet treats. Not in the mood for a sweet treat? Verrassing aan de Zaan has you covered for anything from soup to a classic hamburger.
There are heaps of options to choose from. Image: Dreamstime
If you can’t seem to find the perfect waterfront restaurant, you can always just grab something to go and sit by the canal. Pssst… We recommend Roxy’s Deli for some delicious takeaway tostis!
Spend the afternoon in the historic city centre
Zaandam’s city centre is a perfect blend of the old and new. The main shopping street, the Gedempte Gracht, is filled with a variety of stores, from local boutiques to big brands.
History as far as the eye can see. Image: Zaans.nl/Supplied
But there’s history hidden between the modern facades as well. The Claude Monet Atelier hosts paintings of the famous French painter’s time in the city, while a quick detour will take you to the beautiful Czaar Peterhuisje, one of the oldest wooden houses in the Netherlands.
Spend the afternoon wandering through Zaandam, pick up a souvenir or two, and enjoy the local vibe.
Join a fun pre-dinner workshop
Before dinner, why not spice things up with a fun workshop or tasting? Many venues offer workshops where you can get inspired by the local crafts from the region.
If you’re a beer lover, you should consider a guided tour of the famous HOOP brewery. You’re guaranteed fun, knowledge and, of course, some delicious beer.
Proost! Image: Freepik
If you’re more after something sweet, a class by Smells like Chocolate might be just up your alley for all things chocolate and cacao.
💡 Tip: Check out the Zaans.nl agenda to see what’s going on in the Zaan region while you’re visiting!
Catch some Zzz’s at the iconic Inntel Hotel
No visit to Zaandam is complete without checking into the Inntel Hotel.
This eye-catching hotel is hard to miss when walking through Zaandam, thanks to its unique look of traditional Dutch houses stacked on top of each other.
The Inntel Hotel gives you the full Zaandam experience — you’ll have all the comforts of modern luxury while being surrounded by the unique historical Dutch architecture.
Spending the night here is an experience in itself, and we’re sure you won’t regret it.
Day two: Get off the beaten path
After a day spent exploring the hotspots, it’s time to get off the beaten path and check out some of the lesser-known areas of the Zaanstreek.
Go for a morning stroll in Wormerveer
Start your second day with a peaceful stroll along the Zaan River in the town of Wormerveer. This charming place offers a more laid-back vibe than bustling Zaandam, with rows of typical Dutch houses and quiet streets.
Start your morning with a stroll! Image: Freepik
The Zaan River adds to the tranquillity of the area, making it a perfect spot to sip on your morning coffee and take in the beautiful views.
Spend your lunch hours at the HEMbrug terrain
Next up, take a short bus (or cycle, or drive!) to the HEMbrug Terrain. This former industrial site has been transformed into a cultural hotspot and is home to creative studios, galleries, and quirky shops.
Grab lunch at one of the local cafes — Café BINDfor a cosy vibe and great coffee, or LAB-44 for some lekkere pizza.
The HEMbrug has lots to offer. Image: DutchReview
After lunch, take a walk around the area and pop by the open-air HEMbrug Museum for a dive into the area’s industrial past or the Museum of Humanity for a change of perspective.
End your trip in nature at Het Twiske
After a long weekend of exploring, close it out with a peaceful afternoon in Het Twiske, a large recreational area just outside the Zaanstreek.
A calm end to an exciting weekend. Image: Dreamstime
Whether you’re in the mood for a scenic bike ride, a lakeside picnic, or just some quiet time in nature, this spot has it all. You can even rent a canoe if you’re feeling adventurous!
It’s the ideal place to unwind, reflect on your trip, and enjoy a serene end to your Zaanstreek getaway.
Hungry for more? If you can’t get enough of the Zaan region, head to Zaans.nl to find even more of the best things to do while visiting the area.
How to get to the Zaanstreek?
Getting to the Zaan region is a breeze, especially if you’re coming from Amsterdam. To do so, hop on a train at Centraal Station and you’ll arrive in Zaandam in 12 minutes.
For those who prefer cycling, the journey takes about 45 minutes and offers a scenic ride through the Dutch countryside.
If you’re driving, it’s an easy 20-minute ride from the city, with plenty of parking options around Zaandam and the surrounding towns.
To find the best route from wherever you may be, Google Maps is your best friend.
Windmills, canals, quirky shops — what’s not to love about the Zaanstreek? With a two-day trip to the region, you can get a taste of it all.
How would you spend your time in the Zaanstreek? Share your ideas in the comments!
In the past weeks, both Leiden University and Utrecht University have disclosed plans for major cuts to their Humanities programs, many of which might disappear altogether.
This Humanities overhaul is just the latest news to shake up Dutch higher education.
It follows the cabinet’s recent announcement of possible education budget cuts worth €1 billion and its goal to substantially reducethe intake of international students.
What is being proposed?
Leiden University is considering three possible scenarios, reports Mare.
The most drastic one involves cutting 36 of its 51 Humanities programs, as well as about 300 courses and over 60 full-time academic staff.
While the changes still need to be discussed internally before becoming official, it is unlikely that they will be scrapped altogether, and their effects may be felt as early as 2026.
As for Utrecht University, the decision seems final: six degree programs will be axed by 2030, and a transition plan is being drawn to further restructure other programs, the university announced in a press release.
What programs might be scrapped?
Wait, does this mean that your degree program might no longer exist in a few years?
Well, possibly. Here are the affected programs for Leiden University:
BA African Studies, Latin American Studies, and corresponding MAs — scrapped
BA Chinese, Japanese, Korean and South and Southeast Asian Studies — merged into “Asian Studies”
BA French, German and Italian — merged into “European Languages and Cultures”
BA Middle Eastern Studies, Linguistics and Ancient Near Eastern Studies — radically downsized or scrapped
MA Asian Studies and Middle Eastern Studies, merged into “Area Studies”
As for Utrecht University, these are the programs that will stop taking in students as of September 1 2026:
BA Celtic, French, German, Islam and Arabic, Italian and Religious Studies
Why are they doing this?
Both universities cite financial concerns as the chief reason behind their drastic Humanities overhaul — simply put, these programs are no longer profitable.
At Leiden University, the Humanities Faculty is expected to lose €5.7 million annually after 2025.
Downsizing the Faculty, then, promises to help alleviate this deficit — although how much money will be saved exactly remains unclear.
Utrecht University, in turn, has a clearer financial picture of the situation.
In order to eliminate its deficit, which is currently expected to grow from €7 million in 2025 to €13 million in 2027, the university will cut 10% of its Humanities budget.
According to the administration, this will allow the university to shore up its finances by 2030.
What do you think of this major Humanities overhaul? You can have an academic debate about it in the comments below.
