The catering industry in the Netherlands is once again using blacklists to keep people who misbehave in bars and clubs from entering any establishment in the entertainment zone.

This includes anyone who uses a weapon, assaults someone, or trades drugs.

The Dutch Data Protection Authority (AP) has permitted 137 entrepreneurs in seven catering areas to use the blacklist.

The hospitality association KHN has created a secure database for the blacklists, including photos and personal data of individuals causing business problems.

The AP thoroughly tested the new model and has set strict security requirements for the database, ensuring that privacy is better guaranteed than in previous blacklists.

In addition, the blacklisted person now has the right to access information on why they are on the list and can challenge their blacklisting through a complaints procedure.

They can also take the matter to court if their objection is found unfounded.

Troublemakers can be banned from all catering businesses in an entertainment zone for up to two years.

The maximum ban period applies to individuals who use firearms or are guilty of aggravated assault.

A 12-month ban can be imposed on those guilty of theft, minor assault, or trading hard drugs.

Fights and paying with counterfeit money can result in a three to six months of ban.

The ban only applies to one specific catering area.

“This is a vital tool that has been proven to be effective,” said Eviline Doornhegge, the Amsterdam regional manager of the KHN. “It works to prevent problems from happening.”

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