Activists enter Microsoft data-center construction site in Amsterdam

Activists entered a Microsoft data-center construction site in Amsterdam on November 6, 2026, climbing a crane and lighting flares as police tried to stop the occupation. The confrontation brought objections to Microsoft’s business onto an active building site, prompting safety statements from the company and property owner Pure Data Centres.

Members of Geef Tegengas, a Dutch direct-action group, entered the site in Westpoort, according to The Guardian. Some attached helium balloons to equipment. Organizers and local media described hundreds of protesters on each side of the perimeter fence, with different groups taking different approaches to the demonstration.

Police said they attempted to prevent the occupation and arrest protesters but could not stop the entry. In a statement to Dutch public broadcaster NOS, police acknowledged using force and said an officer was slightly injured. Protesters from both groups said police used force and tear gas against activists trying to enter.

One site, separate protest actions

The occupation was separate from the Stop Dirty Data Centres campaign’s demonstration at the same location. Its affiliated protesters stayed outside the perimeter fence. The coalition said it had neither coordinated nor promoted the direct action, making the distinction important when attributing what happened inside the construction site.

Inside, protesters hung banners objecting to Microsoft’s services to the Israeli military and US Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Those banners expressed the activists’ accusations and objections. The coalition outside, while distancing itself from organizing the entry, said it was understandable that communities excluded from meaningful decision-making would turn to different tactics.

We understand that people feel strongly about the project, and we respect their right to express those views peacefully. However, we do not condone any actions that are unlawful or that put people’s safety at risk.

Microsoft spokesperson, quoted by The Guardian

The site owner asks activists to leave

Microsoft said it was aware of the demonstration and that the wellbeing of everyone at and around the site was its first concern. Its response addressed the conduct of the protest, emphasizing the boundary between peaceful expression and actions that could endanger people.

Pure Data Centres, identified as the site owner, said entering a live construction site was unlawful and dangerous. The company asked those inside to leave safely and offered dialogue about the development and their concerns. Like Microsoft, it said it respected the right to peaceful protest while prioritizing everyone’s safety.