The documentary Night children continues to cause much debate in the Netherlands. The graphic images and confronting subjects, in particular, are leading to divided reactions online. While some viewers feel the documentary goes too far, others argue that this is the reality people normally do not see.
Crime reporter John van den Heuvel also reacted to the documentary during a broadcast of RTL Boulevard. According to him, the images are intense, but at the same time, he finds it important that people continue to face reality.
Van den Heuvel indicated that drug crime and drug use in the Netherlands are now so visibly present that, in his opinion, it has almost become an “open market.” He stated that drugs are easily available in many places and that this problem has long ceased to be confined to the criminal circuit.
In addition, he expressed criticism of the discussion surrounding legalization. According to Van den Heuvel, additional legalization is not necessary because, in his view, drugs are already widely present and accessible on the streets.
There is now a great deal of discussion online about his statements as well as the documentary itself. Some fully agree with him, while others believe that regulation and legalization can actually help reduce crime.
The discussion surrounding Night children shows once again how sensitive the subject of drug policy in the Netherlands remains.
