Climate and digital rights activists staged a dramatic protest in the Netherlands, scaling the roof of a Microsoft data centre accused of storing sensitive Israeli military data. The demonstration, organised by a coalition of advocacy groups, aimed to draw attention to the tech giant's alleged involvement in military operations.
Direct Action at Data Hub
Early on Saturday morning, a group of 20 protesters breached security at Microsoft's Amsterdam-area facility. Using climbing equipment, they unfurled banners reading "Microsoft Stop Fueling War Crimes" and occupied the rooftop for nearly six hours before police intervention.
Growing Tech Accountability Movement
The action represents an escalation in tactics by European activists targeting technology companies over military contracts. Organisers claim Microsoft's cloud computing services help process data used in Israeli military operations, though the company has not publicly confirmed such contracts exist.
Corporate Response
Microsoft Netherlands issued a statement acknowledging the protest while emphasising their commitment to "responsible business practices". The company declined to comment on specific allegations regarding military data storage, citing client confidentiality agreements.
Political Repercussions
The Dutch government faces increasing pressure to regulate how multinational tech firms operate within its borders. With Amsterdam emerging as a major European data hub, such protests raise complex questions about national sovereignty in the digital age.
Local authorities confirmed seven arrests for trespassing, with all protesters released later the same day. The demonstration concluded peacefully, though organisers vow to continue their campaign against "tech complicity in human rights violations".
