the Netherlands is gradually phasing out restrictions

The authorities of the Netherlands begin to ease restrictions on Wednesday, despite the fact that the infection rate in Europe as a whole continues to grow.

Since December 18, the country has been living in a regime of strict restrictive measures. Bars, restaurants, museums, theaters and gyms were closed. Supermarkets and pharmacies have limited opening hours.

The government acknowledges that all these measures have not led to the desired result in curbing the incidence. At the moment, about 60 thousand cases per day are recorded in the Netherlands.

Prime Minister Mark Rutte says the easing is a big risk, but the authorities are ready to take the risk amid falling deaths and fewer hospitalizations.

In addition, a wave of protests swept the country. Mass actions on the streets of large cities ended in clashes with the police. Some cafes, beauty salons and museums in different cities opened a week ago for a day in protest.

Under the new rules, bars and restaurants will be able to open and operate until 10 p.m. However, entry into them will be possible strictly upon presentation of a negative covid test or vaccine passport.

Nightclubs remain closed. The number of spectators at cultural and sporting events should not exceed 1250 people.

The next time covid restrictions in the Netherlands will be reviewed on March 8, unless there are unforeseen situations.