In their latest 2024 annual report, the Dutch ombudsmen have sharply criticized the government for consistently overlooking the needs of citizens and dismissing advice from society. According to the National Ombudsman, Reinier van Zutphen, the Veterans Ombudsman, and the Children’s Ombudsman, Margrite Kalverboer, political debates often fail to prioritize genuine support for people. “The actual helping of people does not seem to be the priority in the political discussions,” the ombudsmen stated in their report’s introduction.
The ombudsmen pointed out that many bills, motions, and amendments seem more focused on political spectacle than on addressing the real needs of citizens. Promises made—such as those for compensation related to the childcare benefits scandal, or improvements to public services—often lack the necessary financial backing and investment in the agencies tasked with implementing them.
“Unrealistic promises create distrust and undermine confidence in the government, especially among the very people the plans are meant to benefit,” the ombudsmen emphasized.
They have repeatedly urged the government to listen more attentively to the concerns of civilians, as well as to the advice of implementing agencies and institutions that protect the rule of law. However, according to the ombudsmen, the government continues to ignore these crucial signals.
One notable example of advice going unheard is the ongoing debate around asylum laws. The ombudsmen have long argued that this disregard for expert advice leads to “improper governance,” adding that when the government neglects the signals, “civilians pay the price.”
Another issue raised by the ombudsmen is the government’s failure to consistently prioritize the welfare of civilians in its policies. A prime example is the inadequate provision of school transport for students with disabilities. Too often, these students are either picked up late or not at all, causing them to miss classes or arrive late.
“This happens because practical and financial interests are given more weight than the interests of the child,” Kalverboer noted. She has called on the current caretaker Cabinet to recognize student transport as part of healthcare in 2024, urging that it be treated with the same level of care and attention.
The ombudsmen also highlighted the lack of support for veterans’ families, particularly those suffering from PTSD, and expressed concern over the protection of the right to demonstrate. Van Zutphen even launched an investigation into how this fundamental right was exercised in the Netherlands last year.
Despite these critiques, the ombudsmen believe that the government can still rebuild trust with its citizens. They pointed to DUO, the central agency responsible for education-related administration, as a positive example. DUO had previously used an algorithm that discriminated against students, but after apologizing and engaging directly with those affected, the agency is now working on compensation efforts.
However, the ombudsmen emphasized that the government should treat its citizens fairly and responsibly, not only when things go wrong. “The rule of law does not protect itself,” they concluded, stressing the need for a consistent commitment to the rights and well-being of all citizens.
SJN
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