Activists break into Microsoft data centre site in Amsterdam

Activists broke into a construction site for a Microsoft data centre in Amsterdam on Friday, clashing with police as part of a wider protest against the artificial intelligence boom. The action took place at Westpoort Amsterdam, where the group forced its way onto the site.

The protesters belong to Geef Tegengas, a Dutch direct action group. Some members climbed a crane on the site. They also lit flares and tied helium balloons to equipment. Police clashed with the group as they entered the site. Police have not said how many people were arrested.

Separate actions were held outside the fence and in other parts of Europe. Campaigners say they are demanding a pause in the construction of new data centres across the continent. They argue that the buildings put strain on water supplies and power grids, and work against climate goals.

Growing backlash in Europe

Data centres house the large computer systems that run cloud services and AI tools. They need huge amounts of electricity to run and cooling water to keep their servers from overheating. As demand for AI grows, more of these facilities are being planned and built.

Campaigners say protests are planned in 16 countries. The Amsterdam action is one of the first to see activists enter an active construction site. The backlash reflects a broader concern in Europe about the social and environmental costs of the AI boom.

What comes next

It is not yet clear whether Microsoft or Dutch authorities will respond to the break-in, or whether the construction work will be halted. Further protests are expected in the coming weeks, according to the campaigners.