Dutch police intervened on Friday after pro-Palestinian activists occupied the construction site of a planned Microsoft data centre in Amsterdam, protesting the technology company’s alleged ties to Israel and the environmental impact of large data facilities.
According to Dutch public broadcaster NOS, dozens of demonstrators entered the construction site in the Sloterdijk district around midday. Activist group Geef Tegengas, however, claimed that several hundred people had participated in the occupation.
Police said some protesters climbed onto a crane and the roof of the building under construction, prompting concerns about safety at the site.
While several demonstrators agreed to leave voluntarily, officers began removing those who remained. Police warned that anyone refusing to vacate the premises could face arrest.
Authorities confirmed that one person was arrested on suspicion of obstructing construction activities, while a police officer sustained minor injuries during the operation.
The occupation took place alongside a planned demonstration organised by environmental group Fossielvrij NL, which opposes the development of data centres partly because of their substantial energy consumption.
Several protesters carried Palestinian flags and displayed banners criticising Microsoft’s alleged connections to Israel.
One demonstrator reportedly pointed to the Israeli military’s use of Microsoft services, arguing that the company’s commercial relationship with Israel warranted public opposition.
The demonstration brought together concerns over the environmental costs of expanding data infrastructure and allegations regarding technology companies’ involvement with Israel.
Responding to the protest, Microsoft said it respected the right to peaceful demonstration but opposed unlawful activities and actions that could put public safety at risk.
The incident comes amid growing scrutiny from campaigners over the energy demands of data centres and the relationships between major technology companies and military organisations.