Protesters break into Microsoft data centre site near Amsterdam
About 100 activists from the group Geef Tegengas entered the construction site, citing concerns over electricity use and AI.
Key facts
Story- About 100 protesters entered a Microsoft data centre construction site in Amsterdam on 6 November.
- The group Geef Tegengas said the facility would strain local electricity supplies.
- Some protesters climbed a crane and unfurled banners; police had tried to block the demonstration.
Protesters broke into a Microsoft data centre construction site near Amsterdam on Thursday, 6 November. More than 100 people entered the site. The activist group Geef Tegengas organised the protest against the project.
The group opposes the construction of three data centre towers, each 85 metres tall, on the outskirts of the city. Protesters said the facility would put heavy strain on local electricity supplies. Police had tried to stop the demonstration, but protesters broke through barriers and got onto the site.
Some demonstrators climbed a crane and hung a banner reading "fuck AI". Others unfurled a "Microsoft powers genocide" banner. Protesters also chanted "Microsoft has got to go" and "free Palestine".
The protest is the latest in a series of demonstrations at the site. Amsterdam banned new data centres more than a year before this protest. Local opposition to the project has grown as concern about technology infrastructure has increased.
Such facilities use large amounts of power, and that can affect electricity supply and prices in the areas where they are built.
It is not yet known whether anyone was arrested or hurt during the protest, or what action police or Microsoft have taken since.
Worth your time?
One tap helps idly bring you more of what matters.
Advertisement
