Amsterdam is bolstering safety measures for women, offering martial arts training, expanding access to sexual violence support, and launching a “buddy system” for nighttime commutes. The move comes as city officials aim to address rising concerns about harassment and violence.
“It should be self-evident that women and girls can move through Amsterdam without fear,” the city council stated, emphasizing safety “on the street, at home, at school or work and in the nightlife.”
The expanded program builds on existing initiatives launched in 2020. Mayor Femke Halsema announced the increased efforts on August 21, following the murder of Lisa from Abcoude. “You can count on the Public Prosecution Service, police and municipalities in Amsterdam-Amstelland to do everything they can to combat femicide, sexual violence and all forms of misogyny,” she said.
Details released by local broadcaster AT5 include extending the Sexual Violence Center’s walk-in hours to 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week starting in mid-January. The Stay Group will also receive additional support from care providers, and the GGD will provide increased medical expertise for early intervention in cases of (sexual) violence. Enhanced protection measures, including alarm buttons, will be available to victims of sexual violence and stalking.
Women affected by violence will also have easier access to free legal assistance.
Identifying Vulnerable Locations
Mayor Halsema highlighted the need for safer public spaces back in August. Earlier this year, the municipality identified over 160 “vulnerable places”—including poorly lit bike paths, tunnels, and public transportation stops—where improvements are planned. This includes pruning bushes and installing additional lighting, with a trial of improved lighting already underway in Amsterdam-Zuidoost.
The city is also committed to incorporating a “female perspective” into the design of streets and squares, utilizing the experiences of women and girls to inform urban planning.
The initiative includes offering martial arts training for women, which, while not a solution to violence, aims to foster a greater sense of personal freedom. Trainers will also be equipped to help women in unsafe relationships connect with support services.
The ‘Angela’ Code Word
To enhance safety in nightlife, the city is promoting the international code word ‘Angela.’ If someone says ‘Angela’ in a bar, it signals they are experiencing harassment, prompting staff to intervene.
Amsterdam is also training four additional security officers to respond to street harassment. A “buddy system” is being launched, with bike buddies initially available from the Johan Cruijff Arena and the Ziggo Dome.
The city council is also focusing on engaging men through the ‘Man, say something’ campaign, encouraging them to speak out against inappropriate behavior. Workshops will also be offered to young people about the impact of misogynistic language online.
