How Can I Protect Myself in The Netherlands?
Forewarned is forearmed. It's best to know the legal limitations of self-defense when facing danger.
For many years Groningen was known to be a safe, pedestrian-focused city in the north of the Netherlands. Unfortunately, recent events that happened may suggest otherwise. In the past few months, Groningen was a witness of a few shootings in stabbings. It is natural that those kinds of incidents decrease your confidence and make you feel less safe. Authorities intensified their actions and thanks to that Police reaction time to any kind of occurrence increased. We've received inquiries about how to enhance personal safety; here are our recommendations:
Can I carry a knife for self-defense?
No. Dutch law prohibits carrying weapons in public spaces. Self-defense equipment, such as tasers, knifes, telescopic batons, pepper sprays and other similar objects manufactured to serve as a weapon are not permitted to be carried. According to the law, any object that provides an advantage in a fight is considered a weapon, and possessing it is generally illegal.
What should I do when I sense danger?
First and foremost, it's important to remain calm and avoid being provoked into a fight. Many incidents can be prevented simply by not responding to or engaging with the provocateur.
Draw attention. Ensure that everyone around you is aware of the situation you are facing. Attackers, upon realising they are being observed by multiple people, are often discouraged from continuing with their actions.
Use Verbal Assertiveness. If confronted, use a strong and firm voice to assert boundaries, such as saying “Stay back!” or “I need help!” This can sometimes dissuade a potential attacker.
Leave the location. Head towards public places where there are more people, such as a store, restaurant, or directly to a police station.
In case a fight is unavoidable, what can I do?
In such situations, all kinds of martial arts and self-defense classes can make an unbelievable difference. It's wise to educate yourself in advance before you potentially face an incident. While you are permitted to use your skills to defend yourself, it is crucial that your response is proportional to the threat you are facing. For example, you are not allowed to use severe violence to a pickpocket attempt.
In any situation, the best course of action is always to inform the authorities by calling 112. Their response time is swift, and the police can arrive within minutes with the necessary backup. Stay safe!