The Netherlands' cycling culture is often discussed. There's hardly any country in the world where people value cycling so much. However, even prominent leaders are seen riding bicycles in the Netherlands. Former Prime Minister Mark Rutte was spotted riding his bicycle to Parliament several times. Cycling has become a hallmark of Amsterdam, the capital. Everyone from children to the elderly can be seen riding bicycles here.
Currently, the Netherlands is known as a bicycle haven. Cars once dominated this country rapidly. In the 1950s and 1960s, economic growth led to a rapid increase in vehicle numbers. Bicycles gradually disappeared from the roads, but road accidents also increased rapidly. In 1971, thousands of people died in road accidents in the Netherlands, a large number of whom were children.
After the accidents in the Netherlands, people's anger grew. They launched a massive campaign against cars and in support of safer roads. They named the movement "Stop de Kindermoord," meaning "Stop the Deaths of Children." People took to the streets with bicycles.
In response to the protests, the then government limited the speed of cars. Additionally, newly designed roads were built and separate paths were created for cyclists.
In this country, everyone from children to the Prime Minister rides bicycles - Photo: Adobe Stock
The global oil crisis brought about a change in thinking
The global oil crisis of 1973 also changed the thinking of the people of the Netherlands. During that time, oil prices rose sharply, and the government banned cars from traveling on many roads on Sundays. People began cycling on empty roads. During this time, people realized that a city with less traffic was more comfortable and safe. During this time, cycling gained a renewed following in the Netherlands.
Currently, thousands of kilometers of cycle tracks exist in the Netherlands. Many cities across the country have dedicated bicycle signals, parking, and lanes. A significant portion of daily commuters here travel by bicycle. Amsterdam is also known as the bicycle capital of the world.
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