Signs of violence at protest against transgender law in Utrecht, many officers deployed

There are signals that people are looking for a "violent confrontation" with demonstrators from the organization Let Women Speak, the triangle (police, Public Prosecution Service, and the mayor) in Utrecht announced on Sunday. The demonstration will take place at 2 p.m. in Nieuweroord Park, with speakers who criticize the transgender law and talk about how "men are destroying women's sports."

The triangle states that demonstrating is a fundamental right and that there is also room for dissent. "What is not allowed is a violent confrontation with demonstrators. There are signs that individuals are intent on doing so. This not only endangers public order but also the right to freedom of expression. That is also the reason why many police officers are present this afternoon to manage both demonstrations."

According to the triangle, the signals were discussed with the organizer of the counter-demonstration. The latter has reported that he is not looking for violence. The Telegraaf reported on Saturday that it had audio recordings and film footage of an Antifa meeting, which showed that there was talk of preparing for a tough confrontation.

The feminist organization Let Women Speak believes that women are not being heard in the debate on transgender rights. In a manifesto, it states that there are "two genders" and that "people cannot change their gender." The counter-demonstrators accuse them of trans-hatred.