The Dutch youth movements “Students for Open Education” and the “Bovenwijsbond” have organized a demonstration on January 8 in Amsterdam under the name “Young people are fed up!“. Dozens of different organizations, speakers, student movements, youth departments of political parties etc., are working together to facilitate a huge demonstration for and by young people.
This demonstration focuses the attention on the disastrous consequences that the measures have on the (mental) health of young people. In addition, a plea is made for an open debate on the government corona restrictions, in which young people are given a serious voice.
Furthermore, it is stated that the right to education is unconditional, and that in-presence education without “green” passes should always be guaranteed.
Interview by Max von Kreyfelt with Titus and Nadim from “Students for Open Education” and Lacey and Denzel from the “Bovenwijsbond” for one of Café Weltschmerz’s programs.
Some highlights:
- I see that universities hardly ever speak out.
- Until recently, I didn’t worry about anything; this has only happened because of the Corona crisis and everything related to it.
- The situation is worse for young people of all age groups and almost no one is aware of it.
- I am concerned about the state of young people.
- Many students don’t realize what is happening what damage is occurring and the consequences we are all suffering.
- Students, workers and peasants are always the groups that lead to revolution and are able to overturn power. In two years of dictatorial rule, it took a long time for students to realize what was happening. Why is it taking students so long to realize that their future is falling apart?
- Most students are fine. They’re not aware. But a lot of students I don’t think are interested, to be honest.
- In the last 20 years there has been a prelude to a culture of nullification.
- It has to come from the students…. But you’re asleep.
- I have hope that young people will begin to understand that they are the link.