Prinsjesdag 2009: Speech From the Throne

Despite heightened security measures stemming from the Apeldoorn tragedy, thousands of Dutch citizens turn out for Prinsjesdag on Tuesday to see the golden coach carry Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands and her family to Parliament in the Hague. The queen gave her annual Speech from the Throne. Her entire speech is below.

"Members of the States General,"

"The times we are living in demand determination and a willingness to change. The global financial and economic crisis has hit countries hard, including the Netherlands. The speed at which events unfolded over the past year was unprecedented. People are losing their jobs, the number of bankruptcies is rising fast, assets built up over many years are shrinking and public finances are inevitably showing large deficits. The consequences will be felt for a long time to come. In addition, aberrations in the financial sector have undermined trust in institutions and their directors. As a result, many people are feeling increasingly uncertain about the future."

"The government's ambition is to turn uncertainty into recovery. The changes required can strengthen the Netherlands economically and socially. We have much to offer our country and one another by standing together and holding fast to the tradition of freedom, responsible citizenship and active European and international engagement."

"In the autumn of 2008 the government vigorously intervened in the financial sector in order to safeguard people's savings and business finance, and prevent economic collapse."

"€3 billion is to be invested in building and maintaining schools, hospitals, homes and infrastructure, and energy conservation. With these measures, the government aims to stimulate the economy. Another €3 billion has been set aside for labour market and business, and education and knowledge. Companies are being supported with broader loan facilities and part-time unemployment schemes. This will enable more employees to keep their jobs."

"Between 2008 and 2011 an extra €8 billion will be spent on unemployment and social assistance benefits. The budget for 2010 devotes special attention to fighting youth unemployment."

"Today, the government is submitting a Crisis and Recovery Bill, aimed at accelerating procedures for infrastructure projects. This will lay the basis for greater economic dynamism and therefore more jobs."

"Government spending will not be cut while the Dutch economy is shrinking. These and other measures will cushion the impact of the recession as much as possible in the short term. For subsequent years, the present budget contains proposals that provide a basis for restoring public finances."

"The national debt has risen sharply and will not fall again by itself. The surplus of 1% of GDP on last year's budget will have turned into a deficit of over 6% in 2010. The recession is resulting in considerably lower tax revenue from private individuals and businesses. Even with an average economic growth of 2%, the national debt will continue to increase by about €35 billion a year."

"Although the economy looks set to improve slightly next year, the tasks we face are still considerable. Declining prosperity and a mounting national debt will make it more difficult to meet the costs of an ageing population and make the necessary transition to an economy that fully satisfies the demands imposed by a sound climate and environmental policy. If policy remains unchanged, there will be serious and undesirable consequences for the level of taxes and social insurance contributions, employment and the affordability of pensions and services such as health care and education."

"The government believes it would be inappropriate to pass on these bills to the younger generation and future generations. Young people today face the prospect of being unable to find jobs, of having to bear the additional costs of an older population during their working lives, and of then being unable to rely on good public services. We must not allow this to happen!"


"Against this backdrop, the government has already presented its plans to raise the state pension age to 67 (making allowances for strenuous occupations), curb healthcare costs and tax owners of homes worth over €1 million more heavily."

"Before the end of this year, a Central and Local Government Deficit Reduction Bill will be submitted to parliament, which the government hopes will take effect on 1 January 2011. This legislation will make it compulsory to improve the balance between expenditure and revenue each year."

"Over the next six months, the government will prepare fundamental reviews of some 20broad areas of the public sector. The 2010 Spring Memorandum will provide the first opportunity to announce measures. To help restore public finances, areas will be sought in which social objectives can be achieved while cutting spending by 20%. The aim is to identify financially viable ways to perform public services more effectively, better tailor policy to problems in society and achieve a better division of responsibilities between government and citizens."

"The reviews must also result in education, knowledge, innovation and enterprise being used more effectively to promote economic growth. They will also show how important sectors of the Dutch business community, such as water management and energy, agriculture and fisheries, climate and environment, can contribute. The reviews are aimed at making fundamental choices in order to strengthen our country's economy and society."

"Wage restraint helps to create more jobs and to divide the costs of the economic recession fairly between those in work and those out of work, between the public and private sectors, between people with higher and lower incomes, and between young and old. The government calls on the social partners to avoid inappropriate pay rises. If this does not happen, the government will have to take further measures."

"The economic recession has exposed ethical shortcomings in the way market and society operate. The government has identified flaws in the financial sector both inside and outside the Netherlands, and drawn up proposals for stricter standards and better supervision. Binding agreements will be made on limiting excessive salaries and bonuses."

"In these difficult times, the government believes it is important to continue working towards a society in which people feel a sense of togetherness, respect one another and share responsibility. A good upbringing and good education are the foundation of responsible citizenship."

"Over the past two years, the government has taken measures to promote social cohesion, safety and security, stability and mutual respect. A persistent, multi-year approach is required to achieve results. The government will therefore continue to devote special attention to youth and young people, civic integration and vulnerable neighbourhoods in the big cities."

"The lack of integration of certain groups in society, widespread disrespectful and offensive behaviour in public places and criminal behaviour by groups of young people are stubborn problems that cause a great deal of annoyance. The government is therefore not only taking consistent action against offenders but also tackling the causes of unacceptable behaviour. To this end, it is imperative for the criminal justice authorities, police, municipalities, probation services and youth care services to work together."

"The government will promote social resilience in the Netherlands by giving citizens and organisations more space and working closely with them. Close cooperation is also needed with local authorities and the public sector. Confidence in civil society organisations, democracy and the rule of law are indispensable in this regard."

"For the Netherlands to be economically and socially strong, it needs to work with its European partners and pursue an international approach. It has much to gain from an open and sustainable world economy. Over 60% of our jobs directly depend on this. The Netherlands is committed to free and fair world trade and better supervision of the international financial sector."

"The recession is making it more difficult to fight poverty and tackle climate change - tasks that all countries face. Nevertheless, the Netherlands will continue to press for cooperation with the poorest countries and with countries with emerging economies, and for drastic cuts in the emission of harmful substances. The General Assembly of the United Nations, the G20 summit in Pittsburgh and the climate conference in Copenhagen all offer the chance to take further steps this year."

"The Netherlands has a great deal to offer the world. We want to promote peace and security. Our country champions human rights, freedom, democracy and the international legal order. These values originated in Europe. European cooperation remains essential, especially at times like this. The government looks forward to the Lisbon Treaty entering into force."

"The Netherlands will continue to fulfil its international responsibilities and participate in peace and security missions. The government has great admiration for the troops that carry out these difficult tasks, such as in Afghanistan. We remember and respect all those who have lost their lives or been injured on these missions."

"The government will continue to work towards healthy public finances and good public services in its relations with other parts of the Kingdom. New constitutional arrangements within the Kingdom should contribute to these goals. All those involved should try to finalise the arrangements over the coming year, in the public interest."

"Members of the States General,"

"The Netherlands faces an exceptional but by no means impossible task. With determination and a willingness to change we can use the opportunities that present themselves to strengthen our country economically and socially. The government calls on all Dutch citizens and everyone living in the Netherlands to play their part. All of us have a responsibility, young and old, members of the public and administrators, employees and employers. The government hopes that everyone realises this and will act accordingly."

"You, members of the States General, bear a heavy responsibility. You need to take the initiative, together with the government. In discharging your duties, you may feel supported in the knowledge that many are wishing you wisdom and join me in praying for strength and God's blessing upon you."Photos: © ANP/Olaf Kraak, RVD

Prinsjesdag 2008: Speech From the Throne

As Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands presided over the glittering pageantry of Prinsjesdag 2008, she presented her Speech from the Throne which outlined the government policies to be implemented in the coming year.

Below is Queen Beatrix’s entire Speech from the Throne.

"Members of the States General,"

"The Netherlands can respond to the exacting demands that are now being made of us with confidence and self-assurance. Global developments are causing people concern. There are threats to peace and security in many parts of the world. Sustainable economic growth cannot be taken for granted. Greater efforts are needed in our own country to ensure the quality of our living and working environment and to enhance mutual respect."

"The government intends to work with everyone in the Netherlands to build a country that has confidence in itself and keeps its gaze fixed on the future. The proposed budget for 2009 emphasises intensive international cooperation, the best possible conditions for sustainable economic growth, and an environment that provides people with a sense of confidence and certainty."

"Peace and security demand our constant attention. The Netherlands has traditionally contributed to peace missions and development cooperation. As an internationally oriented country, we take a responsible and constructive attitude. Today, as in the past, we will not flag in our efforts in the fields of the international legal order, human rights, development cooperation and crisis management. To carry out our security tasks properly, we will invest in materiel and human resources."

"The presence of Dutch troops in Afghanistan and other conflict areas confirms that our solidarity transcends national borders. Our forces deserve our unceasing appreciation for the demanding task that they carry out, often at the risk of their own lives. Our thoughts are with those who have fallen and with their families."

"Fragile states are experiencing great difficulty in attaining the Millennium Development Goals. For this reason, the government will invest more in these countries. It will also endeavour to promote freedom of expression, media diversity and freedom of religion in the world. To this end, the resources of the Human Rights Fund will be increased."

"The European Union has brought freedom and security to our continent. The government will continue to strive for close European cooperation. It is gratifying that you, the States General, have approved the Treaty of Lisbon. The government hopes that the Union’s member states will continue the ratification process in 2009.
European cooperation is also crucial to achieving sustainable economic growth. The EU budget should increasingly be aimed at meeting this objective."

"Sustainable economic growth cannot be taken for granted. The world economy has encountered setbacks. Demand for food and energy is rising everywhere, as are prices. The crisis on the financial markets is slowing growth in the Netherlands and abroad. Thanks to our efforts in past years, the Dutch economy is in relatively good shape. Unemployment is low. Since 2000, the purchasing power of households has risen by an average of 12%. Our pension system and other social services are solid. But vigilance is still called for."

"The government plans to further reinforce the foundations of our economy by improving our country’s competitiveness, curbing inflation and increasing the rate of labour market participation. VAT will therefore not be increased. This should make possible responsible pay awards and a reduction in employees’ social insurance contributions. In this way, the burden of tax and contributions on individuals and businesses can be decreased in 2009."

"The government is aiming for a budget surplus again next year, so as to ensure the quality of care and funding for the state old age pension system in the long term. A budget surplus alone is not enough to ensure a sustainably high level of public services, however. It is also necessary for more people to go to work. Everyone who can make a contribution must do so."

"There are personnel shortages in health care, education and other sectors. This is another reason why the government is keen on raising the rate of labour market participation. Childcare will continue to be an attractive option for parents in paid work. It will become financially more attractive for benefit claimants to take up employment. Employers will receive grants when they hire the long-term unemployed. Instead of social assistance benefit, young people below the age of 27 will be offered a suitable combination of learning and working. The scheme for young disabled persons will be modified so that they will be helped to find jobs at an earlier stage. Employees who stay in work beyond the age of 62 will receive a bonus. People with part-time jobs will be financially rewarded for working longer hours. We will make it easier for highly qualified foreign nationals to work in the Netherlands."

"The business community and the financial sector are essential to a healthy economy. The government will create more scope for enterprise. The SME profit exemption will be increased. The rate of tax in the lowest band of corporation tax will be reduced. The elimination of first day notification of new employees to the tax authorities is one measure that will diminish the administrative burden on employers. Application procedures for permits will be simplified. The government will also offer promising companies support for their further growth for a five-year period."

"Economic development is only possible with an adequate infrastructure. The government plans to increase road and rail capacity. Construction projects for this purpose must be completed more quickly. The government will introduce emergency legislation on road widening in the House of Representatives. The burden of taxation will also be divided more fairly among road users. In the future car ownership will be taxed less heavily and car use more heavily. The government will take the first step next year towards introducing this system. Tax on car purchase will be lowered; motor vehicle tax will be raised. The cleaner cars are, the less tax car owners will pay. Travelling by train will also be made more attractive: new stations will be opened and more trains will operate."

"The Netherlands is well protected against floods. But the expected rise in sea levels will necessitate a substantial effort for a number of years. We want our great-grandchildren to be able to live as safely in the Netherlands as we do. The government will introduce legislation that will lay the basis for this.

"Strengthening the economic infrastructure should go hand in hand with taking care of nature and the environment. We must become much less dependent on fossil fuels. To this end, the government will promote the use of solar, wind and geothermal energy. Procedures will be simplified so as to speed up the construction of wind parks in the North Sea. A grant scheme will encourage the purchase of heat pumps and solar water heaters. Half a million homes will be made more energy efficient over the next three years."

"Dutch agriculture and horticulture are very innovative. This creates opportunities for sustainable development in these sectors. The government will encourage the greenhouse culture sector to become a net energy supplier. The fishing industry also deserves a stable future."

"People derive a sense of certainty and confidence from their living environment. The budget for 2009 includes a coherent package of proposals to enhance the quality of this environment. People want to live in safe, pleasant neighbourhoods where there are good schools for their children. They want to have space for relaxation and sport, for young and old. They expect care and nursing that respect their dignity as human beings. They wish for a government that is reliable and clear in what it says. Cooperation with local authorities, housing associations and the public is needed to achieve these ends."

"Respect, security and trust are core values in our democracy, which is grounded in the rule of law. We must take action against those who break society’s rules. To prevent recidivism, prisoners must receive adequate supervision and guidance on their return to society. Drug addicts who commit crimes will be forced to seek help earlier. Aggressive or intimidating behaviour in public is unacceptable. Serious anti-social behaviour will be tackled effectively by means of banning orders. People who threaten police officers, ambulance personnel and other public servants will be dealt with firmly."

"Clarity as to what is and what is not permissible fosters trust among citizens and promotes confidence in the government. People feel safer if there is supervision in residential areas and in town centres. In 2009 an additional 125 community police officers will be employed. Municipalities will be authorised to impose fines immediately for certain minor offences. Members of the public can also contribute to a safe living and working environment. The government will continue to work to ensure a bigger role for volunteers in the fire service and the police. Special attention will be focused on making individuals and business more self-reliant in emergencies and disasters."

"Most young people in the Netherlands are doing well, but there are also those who are having a hard time of it. The government wants to give them more opportunities. In addition, the criminal justice authorities, the police and the youth care services are working together closely to correct undesirable behaviour in young children early on. There will also be a greater focus on prevention. Parents will be held to account for their children’s behaviour. To provide appropriate help sooner, a register of at-risk juveniles will be introduced. The establishment of Youth and Family Centres and Community Safety Partnerships will also make a contribution here."

"Education and training improve opportunities. The government is working hard to improve education. It is particularly interested in improving basic language and numeracy skills and reducing the number of underperforming schools. Lowering the drop-out rate remains another priority. Vocational schools will be created specially for pre-secondary vocational pupils who are good with their hands. Education is only as good as the teachers who provide it. To strengthen their position, teachers will be given better pay and more opportunities for training."

"The government seeks to encourage culture and the arts to flourish, and to introduce all young people to them at an early age. To that end, as from 2009, all children under 12 will be able to visit museums free of charge. Young people under 18who have a culture card can discover the inspiring cultural wealth of this country."

"There is a close link between good health and sport. The government is therefore investing more in sports opportunities for young people and the disabled. Centres for top-level sport and education will be set up to provide better support for talented athletes. The 2028 Olympic Plan can be a source of inspiration, boosting sport at all levels."

"People’s quality of life is improved by good, accessible care. The government wants to organise care so that the chronically ill can receive care close to home. Patients will be given more information on the quality of care on offer. The introduction of an electronic patient database will reduce the number of medical errors. Innovation and greater freedom to negotiate prices are necessary to cut waiting lists and keep care good and affordable. In 2009 the government will take further steps to this end. People with severe disabilities brought on by disease or old age will have more choice in deciding on the long-term help they need. The necessary care can also be provided at home, which will allow the elderly to stay in familiar surroundings for longer."

"This country draws strength from the rule of law, which affords protection and certainty to our citizens. We defend equality, freedom, solidarity, democracy and the principles of the rule of law, both at home and abroad. This is our shared responsibility. The government is lending its support to the establishment of a Centre for Democracy and the Rule of Law. A code of good governance will be drawn up, so that citizens know what they can expect from the public authorities. Furthermore, a national commission will be established to explore ways of making the constitution more accessible. The government will also be drawing up a responsible citizenship charter. Everyone living in the Netherlands should remain imbued with the democratic values and responsibilities that form the foundation of Dutch society."

"A good command of the language is a prerequisite for participating in Dutch society. The government is expanding opportunities for recruiting language coaches. The use of native speakers to help immigrants learn Dutch is invaluable."

"Democratic principles like legal certainty, reliable governance and mutual respect also underpin relations within the Kingdom. In December the government hopes to take a major step towards implementing the agreements on constitutional change in the Netherlands Antilles, along with the governments of the overseas parts of the Kingdom and the individual islands. Under the new system Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba will become part of the Netherlands as public bodies. Preparations are currently being made for this change of status."

"Members of the States General,"

"The measures the government intends to carry out in 2009 aim to increase our country’s self-assurance and strengthen the foundations of our economy and our society. The government realises it cannot do this alone. Everyone will have to shoulder their own responsibility and make a contribution. We need the commitment of all: ordinary citizens, workers, employers, public authorities and our European and international partners. Only together can we build a better future. Together we can make the Netherlands stronger."

"You, members of the States General, bear a heavy responsibility. The government looks forward to a good working relationship with you. In discharging your duties, you may feel supported in the knowledge that many are wishing you wisdom and join me in praying for strength and God’s blessing upon you."

Photos: RVD, ANP/Marcel Antonisse, ANP/Koen van Weel

Prinsjesdag 2007: State Opening of Parliament Speech From The Throne

With much pomp and circumstance, Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands read her speech before a joint session of the two Houses of the States General on September 18th. Below are some highlights from her address.

"Members of the States General,"

"Our country has many grounds for hope and confidence. The economic prospects are good. Entrepreneurs and consumers are optimistic. Young people are able to find jobs quickly."

"There are also hopeful developments in fields other than the economy. More and more people are willing to make an effort to help each other and improve our living environment."

"Now in particular we have opportunities to take measures that will make our country stronger. We must take full advantage of these opportunities."

"Our country has major tasks ahead. We know that the average age of our population is rising. Businesses and public services like health care and education are facing labour shortages. This raises the question of how we will safeguard our prosperity and well-being in the future."

"The growth of our economy will also have to take place in a more sustainable manner."

"Too many people feel unsafe. Preventing and combating terrorism, crime and violence continue to demand much of our attention."

"Dutch society is changing rapidly, and our population is becoming more diverse.People sometimes feel uncertain; they are looking for something to hold on to and a sense of security. These feelings can have a profound impact on people’s lives. Therefore additional efforts are needed to increase social cohesion in our country and reinforce tolerance and mutual respect."

"Change can be a source of strength. In the past, renewal has brought progress to the Netherlands. Our capacity to change and innovate is what gives us the dynamism that is indispensable if we are to engage successfully with the challenges of the future. With its budget for 2008, the Government is making a contribution to meeting these challenges."



Queen Beatrix's entire Prinsjesdag 2007 speech can be read here.

Photos: ANP