Amsterdam Bans Broadcast of David Icke Speech at Demonstration

The city of Amsterdam has prohibited the use of a large LED screen for British conspiracy theorist David Icke to address protesters remotely during a demonstration on Sunday at Dam Square. Mayor Femke Halsema stated that the risk of public disorder was too high, citing concerns over Icke's controversial statements and their potential to incite counterprotests.

In a letter to the event organizers, Halsema explained that only speakers physically present at the demonstration would be allowed to use sound amplification equipment. She expressed concern about “spontaneous counterprotests” sparked by Icke's participation, even online.

“Considering the unrest and protests his antisemitic views and past statements have caused, his online presence could provoke similar responses this time,” Halsema wrote. She warned that this, combined with the city's busy holiday season, could result in “unmanageable situations” requiring police intervention.

The demonstration’s organizers described themselves as "shocked" by Halsema's decision. The protest, described as a "peace demonstration," is set to feature various speakers, including Dutch parliamentarian Gideon van Meijeren of the Forum for Democracy party. The event will begin at Dam Square and continue with a march to Museumplein. Organizers anticipate around 1,500 participants.

David Icke has been barred from entering the Schengen Zone, including the Netherlands, since November 2022. The British conspiracy theorist had planned to speak at an anti-government demonstration organized by the group Samen voor Nederland in Amsterdam. Authorities denied him entry, citing his history of spreading antisemitic and conspiracy-laden rhetoric, which could pose a threat to public order. Icke, who was already en route at the time, turned back after learning of the ban.