The National Ombudsman Reinier van Zutphen is investigating whether the government has acted reliably towards farmers over the past ten years. Farmers have faced many and often changing rules for years. According to Van Zutphen, this causes uncertainty, frustration, and stress among farming families.
The investigation focuses on the impact of government policy on the lives of farmers. Additionally, the ombudsman looks at how the government should act to provide farmers with perspective and trust again.
The Farmer Pays the Price
Van Zutphen emphasizes that he is not a nitrogen expert. But I do know what happens when the government leaves citizens in uncertainty. Indecision has consequences. And the farmer and his family are now paying the price.
No Perspective
Van Zutphen bases his research on signals from the field. Because farmers with complaints find it difficult to reach him, he personally visited farmers in Twente, Zeeland, North Brabant, and Drenthe. Every time farmers told me the same thing: there is simply no perspective.
Indecision
Farmers depend on government policy, and the absence of it also has major consequences. Whether it concerns the farmer who wants to retire, take over the business, or innovate, the future is uncertain for everyone, says Van Zutphen.
The results will be published in the first half of 2026. With this, the ombudsman aims to contribute to a government that keeps its promises to farmers.
