Amsterdam Zuidoost

Amsterdam Zuidoost

Amsterdam Zuidoost

Amsterdam Zuidoost

Amsterdam Zuidoost, also known as Amsterdam Southeast, is a vibrant and diverse neighbourhood with a population of approximately 90,400 inhabitants and an area of 22 km². This area is characterised by its multicultural environment, with more than 170 nationalities represented and a strikingly young population, with 35% of residents under the age of 27 in 2023. The population is expected to grow significantly, with approximately 60,000 new residents by 2030.

Despite its vibrancy, Amsterdam Zuidoost faces several social and economic challenges. Historically, the neighbourhood has suffered from structural neglect, which has led to several interrelated problems. For example, fewer children in this area attend higher secondary education (HAVO and VWO), and there is a higher percentage of school dropouts. Unemployment is relatively high, at 13% in 2020, and many households live on a minimum income, accounting for 23% in 2019. In addition, a significant proportion of the population sometimes feels unsafe (31% in 2022), 18% of residents experience severe loneliness, and half of adults are overweight or obese (52% in 2020).

The complexity of these problems means that they cannot be solved within a single policy area. Many neighbourhoods in Amsterdam Zuidoost have more than a fifth of their residents facing multiple problems. Living conditions in this district are the worst of all Amsterdam's districts and have deteriorated in recent years. Low trust in the government is also notable, with around 35% of residents feeling that the government is not doing enough for them.


The government is actively tackling the challenges facing Amsterdam Zuidoost through various initiatives and partnerships. An important approach is described in the Final Regional Deal: The Power of Zuidoost. Here are some key strategies and actions being taken:

Preventive Debt Assistance: The government is expanding the Preventive Debt Assistance programme. This programme includes guidance sessions and consultation hours provided by neighbourhood teams, with the aim of bridging the gap between informal and formal debt assistance.

Cultural Sensitivity: The government recognises the importance of cultural sensitivity and is working to ensure that debt assistance and other social services are culturally appropriate and accessible to all residents.

Collaboration with Local Organisations: The government works together with local organisations such as GGD Amsterdam to implement health and social initiatives. For example, the IM-EQ Improve Equity project, carried out in collaboration with GGD Amsterdam, focuses on improving health equity through workshops and community involvement.

Community involvement: The government recognises the strength and initiative of residents and involves them in the planning and implementation of various projects. This includes organising meetings and workshops to gather input and ensure that solutions are community-driven.

Tackling Multiple Problems Simultaneously: Given the interconnected nature of the challenges, the government is taking a holistic approach to tackle multiple issues simultaneously. This includes improving education, reducing unemployment, increasing safety and promoting healthy lifestyles.

These efforts are part of a broader strategy to accelerate the transition from structural neglect to widespread prosperity in Amsterdam Zuidoost. The government is committed to working closely with residents, local organisations and other stakeholders to create a more equitable and thriving community.
Source: https://www.ggd.amsterdam.nl/