Dutch hooligans
Despite the fact that there is usually a good atmosphere in the Dutch football leagues, there always are people who want to ruin the atmosphere for others. As shown in Figure 1, the number of incidents has increased in comparison with last year. Unfortunately, football hooliganism occurs frequently whereby football clubs have to deal with fights and vandalism. For instance, matches between Ajax and Feyenoord are always
considered as risk matches because these regularly escalate. However, the government is working with the football clubs to counter this problem, allowing supporter who do not cause trouble to enjoy the matches.
Figure 1. Number of incidents per season (based on the statistics from CCV)
Measures
All incidents are recorded in a databank in order to allow different parties, who have a share in combating football hooliganism, can access this information. This way, hooligans can be monitored. Besides, there are also measures taken during the matches. First, there is the possibility for imposing transport policies at matches with an increased risk of violence. Secondly, drugs are prohibited and drunken fans cannot enter the stadium. There will be determined in mutual consultation or alcohol is permitted during certain matches. Thirdly, fireworks are not allowed in the stadium. In addition, the fans are monitored by stewards inside the stadium and through camera surveillance. Besides, fences are intended to prevent the fans from both parties to fight with each other. To conclude, the referee may decide at any time to abandon the match if the atmosphere is not friendly.
Penalties
There are different types of penalties that can be imposed to the Dutch football hooligans. These individualized penalties focus on maintaining the atmosphere at football matches by excluding rioters. First, a hooligan can get a stadium ban for a certain period. This prohibition can apply to both his club and all matches in professional football. Secondly, fines can be handed out and destruction can be declared on the perpetrator of the damage. Finally, the hooligan can be arrested for a term of imprisonment.
In conclusion, football hooliganism is still quite common. In corporation with the police department and the local mayor, football clubs try to take measures to minimize the phenomenon where possible. However, it remains an issue where individuals cross their own boundaries and the board remains dependent on the type of audience that visits the match. In the struggle for victory, fans empathize in the match which could result in a blurred view on their standards and values.
For more information about measures of the Dutch government against football hooliganism, read here for English and here for Dutch.
Word against violence 