Protesters Breach Microsoft Data Centre Site in Amsterdam Amid Backlash

Protesters broke into the construction site of a Microsoft data centre in Amsterdam, climbing construction cranes, setting off flares, and hanging banners to oppose the expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure.

Nathan Timmer of the activist group Geef Tegengas stated that the action aimed to halt construction over concerns regarding massive electricity and water consumption by energy-hungry facilities. The Amsterdam demonstration launched a coordinated two-day mobilization by the Stop Dirty Data Centres coalition, with protests planned across 16 countries including Ireland, Poland, Denmark, and the UK.

Site owner Pure Data Centres urged protesters to leave safely, while Microsoft stated it respects peaceful protest but does not condone unlawful actions that threaten safety. The protests coincide with growing political resistance in the United States, where voters recently backed dozens of ballot measures seeking to restrict or pause data centre construction.