On Thursday, March 6, a commemoration was held in the House of Representatives following the passing of Frits Bolkestein. From 1990 to 1998, he was the parliamentary leader of the VVD. Bolkestein passed away on February 17, 2025, at the age of 91.
Bolkestein began his political career in 1978 as a member of the House of Representatives. He then successively served as Secretary of State for Economic Affairs, a member of the House again, and Minister of Defense. In 1990, he became the parliamentary leader of the VVD in the House of Representatives. Even after leaving the House, he remained politically active: from 1999 to 2004, he was a member of the European Commission.
Achieving the Extraordinary
Today we pause to reflect on the life of a man who changed the Netherlands. Not by bending with the wind, but by going against it when he deemed it necessary, said House Speaker Martin Bosma in his commemorative speech. He concluded with a quote from Bolkestein himself: Everyone has the duty to bring out the extraordinary in themselves. Bosma added, I believe Frits Bolkestein fulfilled that duty.
When Does the House of Representatives Commemorate?
The House of Representatives holds commemorations upon the death of heads of state from countries with which the Netherlands has close allied relations. This includes EU member states, the Council of Europe, and NATO. Additionally, plenary commemorations are held upon the death of members of the Royal House, Ministers of State, and former House Speakers, Prime Ministers, and Parliamentary Leaders. Commemorations are also held for sitting members of the House and civil servants working in the House of Representatives.
Watch Again
Deputy Prime Minister Sophie Hermans also delivered a commemorative speech. Watch the commemoration again via External link:Debate Direct and read the full speech by House Speaker Bosma.