Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum Sees Over 30 Extinction Rebellion Protesters Arrested Over Sponsorship Dispute
Amsterdam, NL – In a dramatic turn of events at the Rijksmuseum, over 30 protesters from the Extinction Rebellion (XR) movement were arrested on Saturday after chaining themselves to the museum’s entrance fence. The demonstration, which began at 9:00 a.m., led to the temporary closure of the museum, which later reopened at 2:45 p.m.
The XR activists were attempting to draw attention to what they perceive as an inappropriate sponsorship relationship between the museum and ING Bank, which they指责 is a major financial backer of activities contributing to the climate crisis. Despite being given an alternative demonstration location on the Museumplein by the authorities, the protesters refused to comply, leading to their arrest for violating the Public Demonstrations Act.
A police spokesperson confirmed that 33 demonstrators were detained and are being transported to another location. The demonstrators were given some time to move to the designated area, but they did not follow the instruction, the spokesperson stated.
The XR group has been vocal in its criticism of ING’s climate policies, previously staging actions such as blocking the A10 highway near the bank’s former headquarters in Amsterdam. The activists argue that the Rijksmuseum’s association with ING is contradictory, as the museum’s revenue from the sponsorship is minimal—estimated at around 700,000 euros, or less than 0.6% of its total 2023 income of 123.3 million euros.
ING Bank has expressed its concern over the protest’s methods. If XR has an issue with our financing policy, they should reach out to us directly rather than targeting the Rijksmuseum, an ING spokesperson commented. We are always open to dialogue.
The Rijksmuseum, which generates most of its revenue from ticket sales and subsidies, was forced to close its doors to the public as a result of the protest. However, the museum later resumed operations, ensuring visitors could once again enjoy its extensive art collections.
This latest incident underscores the growing tension between environmental activists and institutions they believe are not doing enough to combat the climate crisis. XR’s campaign against ING is part of a broader effort to pressure financial institutions to align their practices with environmental sustainability goals.
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