Activists Storm Microsoft Data Centre Construction Site in Amsterdam Over AI Concerns

More than 100 activists stormed a Microsoft data centre construction site in Amsterdam on Friday, November 6, 2026, as opposition to the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure continues to grow across Europe. The demonstrators entered the facility in the Sloterdijk district, climbed construction cranes and displayed banners criticising the environmental and social consequences of large-scale data centre development. The incident formed part of two days of coordinated demonstrations organised by the Stop Dirty Data Centres coalition across 15 European countries.

The protesters argued that data centres consume enormous amounts of electricity and water, placing additional pressure on local resources and potentially worsening environmental problems. They also raised concerns about the growing influence of major technology companies, AI-powered surveillance and the potential impact of automation on employment. Campaigners are demanding a temporary halt to major data centre construction projects until governments establish clearer regulations covering energy consumption, environmental protection and public consultation.

The Amsterdam demonstration attracted environmental activists and digital rights campaigners, with some protesters also carrying Palestinian flags and criticising Microsoft’s alleged connections to Israeli military operations. Police intervened to remove demonstrators from the construction site, with reports indicating that between 150 and 200 people were detained on suspicion of trespassing. The facility is being developed by Pure Data Centres, which has reportedly committed more than $1 billion to the project, with Microsoft expected to become its sole tenant.

Microsoft said it respected people’s right to express their opinions peacefully but did not support unlawful activities or actions that endangered public safety. Meanwhile, technology companies argue that data centres are essential for supporting artificial intelligence, cloud computing and other digital services used by businesses and governments. The growing protests highlight the increasing conflict between Europe’s ambition to expand its AI capabilities and public concerns about environmental sustainability, energy security and corporate accountability.