Overview
In 1971, traffic accidents in The Netherlands claimed the lives of over 400 children. After a decade of significant increase in private car usage in Dutch cities and a peak in traffic casualties, grassroots movements emerged, advocating for child safety in cities through the reduction of cars. Dubbed ‘Stop de Kindermoord’ (Stop the child murder), this movement is recognized as the genesis of the Dutch cycling and pedestrian culture that prioritizes the safety of children. It provides profound lessons on the power of advocacy in shaping policy and action on child-friendly cities.
Location:
The Netherlands
Organisation:
Stop de Kindermoord, Grassroots organisation
Beneficiary:
Children all ages, caregivers
Scale of proximity:
City
Built environment component:
Public space; street; policy
Links:
https://bicycledutch.wordpress.com/2013/12/12/amsterdam-children-fighting-cars-in-1972/