Plain language election newspaper launched to help 2.5 million Dutch voters
A new election newspaper in plain language aims to make voting easier for 2.5 million Dutch citizens who struggle with reading. The guide explains voting processes and municipal roles in simple terms, ensuring everyone can participate in the upcoming March 18 municipal elections.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Target Group | 2.5 million people with low literacy + new Dutch citizens |
| Election Date | March 18, 2026 |
| Language Level | B1 (suitable for NT1 and NT2 learners) |
| Developers | ProDemos, Stichting Lezen & Schrijven, Stichting ABC, Het Begint met Taal |
| Access Link | Election Newspaper PDF |
| Purpose | Explain voting process and municipal roles in understandable language |
ProDemos is a government-affiliated organization that promotes democratic participation and civic education in the Netherlands. It develops tools like this newspaper to ensure all citizens, regardless of literacy levels, can engage in elections and understand local governance.
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Read the full translated article below
Election newspaper in plain language
On Wednesday, March 18, 2026, the municipal council elections will take place. Especially for people who have difficulty reading and writing, ProDemos created an Election Newspaper in plain language. This newspaper explains in understandable language what the election is about, how voting works, and what the municipality does exactly.
Why an Election Newspaper in plain language?
In the Netherlands, 2.5 million people have difficulty reading and writing. In addition, there are new Dutch people for whom the Dutch language and the political system are new. For them, it can be a challenge to understand a ballot or to find out what the plans are of political parties. This can result in them not being well prepared to go to the polls or not at all.
The Election Newspaper in plain language from ProDemos helps prevent this.
The newspaper was developed by ProDemos in collaboration with Stichting Lezen & Schrijven, Stichting ABC, Het Begint met Taal, and experts by experience. The newspaper is written at B1 level and suitable for NT1 and NT2.
You can view the newspaper via: https://prodemos.nl/app/uploads/2026/02/DIGI_Verkiezingskrant_gewone_taal_GR2026_NL.pdf
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