Naked bike ride planned for Apeldoorn in June

23 April 2004

AMSTERDAM — The Dutch city Apeldoorn could be the venue for a revealing display on 12 June as a group of nude cyclists make their way through the city streets to celebrate the power and individuality of the human body.

But the organisers of the World Naked Bike Ride have not yet lodged an application for the event with Apeldoorn Council. A municipal spokesman confirmed to news agency ANP that a permit was necessary for such an event.

“Based on morality we can refuse such a permit, but the municipality has not yet taken a stance,” he said.

The Dutch Naturist Federation (NFN) said it has been informed by the organisers about  the planned bicycle tour — which is to protest against the world’s dependence on oil — but is not officially involved in the event.

The NFN said it was a “fun initiative”, but would only support the event if it occurred legally. “We stand behind it, provided that a permit is granted. If you don’t get one, it is illegal; it is nudism in place of naturism,” it said.

Furthermore, it said nudism is illegal in the Netherlands and the NFN distances itself from such activities.

The small Christian party SGP has urged Apeldoorn Council to intervene and prevent the ride from proceeding. The party said the bicycle tour is in breach of the Bible and good morality.

The naked bike ride is being staged in various countries across the globe on the same day. It is supported by a various organisations, and everyone willing is welcome to participate. The dress code is as “bare as you dare”.

The organisation was unavailable for comment on Friday, but for more information, click through to its website.

[Copyright Expatica News 2004]

Subject: Dutch news