On May 5, 2026, Anton de Komplein in Amsterdam Zuidoost served as the setting for “ZO is Vrij,” the Zuidoost Liberation Festival. About 5,000 visitors gathered to celebrate 80 years of freedom with music, art, a freedom market, and performances by headliner Rolf Sanchez, among others. ISG Security provided security services during this special day.
A festival with its own unique character
ZO is Vrij is not your typical festival. The event at Anton de Komplein is known for its strong focus on community spirit, inclusivity, and local engagement. Different cultures, local businesses, and a diverse audience come together there in a way you don’t see everywhere. This gives the festival its own unique atmosphere and calls for a security approach that fits that spirit.
Security during “ZO is Vrij” means being present without disrupting the atmosphere. Open, welcoming, and visible, without making visitors feel that freedom needs to be guarded. Especially on a day like May 5, that’s the right tone to strike.
Our Approach
ISG Security worked closely with the ZO is Vrij organization in the lead-up to and during the festival. The collaboration was pleasant and professional, with open lines of communication and a mutual understanding of what the day entailed. Together, we determined how security could best be deployed: visible where necessary, in the background where possible.
Our security guards adapted to the rhythm of the day. Visitors were able to move freely around the grounds, performers were able to perform without interruption, and staff and vendors at the Freedom Market were able to do their jobs comfortably. That’s what we mean by security that truly suits an event.
Safety that doesn’t feel like a burden
A large public event held in an open venue requires preparation, coordination, and flexibility. ISG Security has extensive experience with these types of assignments, where striking a balance between security and the event experience is key—not as two conflicting interests, but as a single, integrated whole.
ZO is Vrij 2026 was a wonderful event. It was a day full of energy and connection, with an impressive program. We are proud to have been able to contribute to this event once again and look forward to continuing our collaboration with the organization.
Want to learn more about how ISG Security provides security for events? Check out our page on event security or festival security.