Henri Duiker’s visit to the Watergeus pool in Zoetermeer, Netherlands, took an unexpected turn when he discovered his 12-year-old son standing alone by the reception desk instead of enjoying the swim evening with his friend. The pool staff had denied his son entry due to a lack of identification, despite the fact that his friend, who was of the same age and appearance, was not asked for any ID.
Duiker’s partner observed the situation for about ten minutes and noted a troubling pattern: every child of color was requested to show proof of age, while white children were allowed to enter without such scrutiny. “She witnessed that the policy was applied exclusively to black children, and those without proper documentation were denied access,” Duiker remarked about the incident that took place in July 2024.
This occurrence led to a significant ruling from the Netherlands Institute for Human Rights, which found that Optisport Zoetermeer, the operator of the municipal pool, had engaged in unlawful racial discrimination. In response to the incident, local council members from multiple parties have raised formal inquiries regarding the circumstances surrounding this event.
Moreover, this incident is part of a broader context of racial tensions in the Netherlands. Just last week, the Dutch football association sought police intervention to address racist online abuse directed at World Cup players. Additionally, during a recent event marking the abolition of slavery, Prime Minister Rob Jetten acknowledged that discrimination and racism remain embedded in Dutch society.
Swimming venues in Europe and North America have frequently become hotspots for racial conflict. In Germany, a swimming facility was ordered to revoke its ban on non-German speakers or face legal repercussions.
Duiker’s son eventually gained entry to the pool after his father intervened, but the incident left a lasting impression on Duiker. He expressed concern over the so-called “Dutch paradox,” where the perception of tolerance in the Netherlands often blinds people to the reality of ongoing racism. “While many believe the Netherlands is exceptionally tolerant, it is deeply troubling to convey to young children that they are not treated as equals,” he stated.
Following the incident, Duiker lodged a complaint with the pool management. After it was dismissed, he sought assistance from the national anti-discrimination helpline, which directed him to the Netherlands Institute for Human Rights. This body can issue non-binding rulings that may be used in legal actions.
Optisport defended its actions, arguing that the observation period was not indicative of a broader checking policy. However, in a formal apology issued by the company’s chief executive, it was stated that the specific age verification method used on that night was eliminated thereafter.
Despite facing backlash and hateful messages for his stance in the media, Duiker insists that the issue of unequal treatment must be taken seriously in the Netherlands. “Many act as though everything is fine, and when you speak out, you risk being accused of ‘playing the racism card.’ Those unwilling to see the problem will continue to overlook it,” he said.
In 2019, UN special rapporteur E Tendayi Achiume faced criticism for highlighting the “Dutch paradox,” where the values of equality and tolerance coexist with a perception that ethnic minorities are not fully accepted as part of Dutch society. In 2022, former finance minister Marnix van Rij acknowledged that institutional racism contributed to the tax office’s fraudulent practices, which disproportionately affected families with dual nationality during a childcare benefits scandal.
In Zoetermeer, local officials, including deputy mayor, have engaged with Duiker, and progressive councillors Shaniqua Monsels and Yasir el Achkar are committed to addressing this matter publicly. “Initially, we debated whether to handle this matter quietly or openly, but Duiker emphasized the need for visibility regarding the discrimination faced by many children,” el Achkar explained.
The municipality and the pool management have accepted the ruling, with a statement from Zoetermeer expressing deep regret over the unequal treatment of a child, emphasizing their commitment to inclusivity and equality. “We strive to ensure that all residents, especially children and youth, feel welcome and safe,” the statement read.
Albert Arp, Optisport’s chief executive, affirmed the importance of fair treatment across its facilities in the Netherlands and Belgium. “We take this ruling very seriously and are reviewing our access and age verification procedures to ensure they are conducted properly and objectively. We have reached out to the family involved to extend our sincere apologies,” he stated.
Duiker remarked that he would have preferred to receive an apology two years ago, prior to the increased media and political scrutiny. “I am of Surinamese descent, and despite being a Dutch citizen, I still feel like a foreigner to some. This situation is about my son and all the children who may feel powerless to speak up,” he concluded.
