AMSTERDAM , Netherlands, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- Netherlands authorities are commissioning a study to determine why Moroccan men target gays in Amsterdam, considered one of Europe's most gay friendly cities.

Amsterdam has experienced a growing number of attacks on gays and lesbians, Der Spiegel reported Friday. In 2006, the Dutch metropolis registered 32 hate crimes directed at gays, but during the first half of 2007, 26 had already been counted, the newspaper said.

Mayor Job Cohen commissioned the University of Amsterdam to conduct a study on the motives behind the attacks.

Half the hate crimes were committed by men of Moroccan origin. Some researchers believe they lashed out at local gays after feeling stigmatized by Dutch society, the newspaper said.