New state commission to scrutinize government intervention in families at risk
Starting April 1, a new state commission will review when and how the government should intervene in families facing child abuse or developmental risks. This move aims to protect families from unjustified actions while ensuring children’s safety, following past controversies like the allowance scandal.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Commission Start Date | April 1, 2026 |
| Chair | Drs. M.I. (Mariëtte) Hamer |
| Members | 6 (legal, ethical, scientific, administrative, and youth care experts) |
| Focus | Child abuse, developmental risks, legal protections, alternative support |
| Final Report Due | April 1, 2028 |
| Key Initiatives Aligned With | Youth Reform Agenda, Future Scenario for Child and Family Protection |
| Trigger for Commission | Report by Commission on Allowances and Out-of-Home Placements |
The Dutch government plays a critical role in safeguarding children’s welfare through youth care policies and interventions. This commission was established to address systemic flaws in government actions, ensuring fair and effective support for families while preventing unjustified separations.
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Government intervention in families to be reviewed by new state commission
As of April 1, 2026, a new state commission will begin reviewing government intervention in families where child abuse and/or developmental risks are present. The commission will advise the government on when intervention is necessary, when it is permissible, and when it should be avoided. It will also examine the conditions and legal protections applicable to these families, as well as explore alternative forms of government involvement or intervention.
In addition to the state commission, the central government, municipalities, professionals, and service providers are working to improve youth care through the *Youth Reform Agenda* and the *Future Scenario for Child and Family Protection*. The state commission has been invited to align its recommendations with the ongoing developments within the *Future Scenario for Child and Family Protection*.
Background of the state commission
The report by the *Commission on Allowances and Out-of-Home Placements* revealed that unjustified recovery actions stemming from the allowance scandal played a significant role in family problems and contributed to the removal of children from their homes. During the parliamentary debate on this report, the House of Representatives passed a motion urging the government to establish a state commission. The cabinet is now implementing this motion by launching the commission.
There has also been growing legal and scientific criticism of how the government intervenes in families where children face unsafe conditions and/or developmental risks, particularly when insufficient appropriate protection and support can be provided. Given the significant impact of government intervention on families, a careful and critical review is warranted.
Composition and working methods
The commission, chaired by Drs. M.I. (Mariëtte) Hamer, consists of six members representing administrative, ethical, scientific, legal, and youth care perspectives:
- Mr. E. (Eddie) Bongers, LL.M.
- Ms. M.T.M. (Marcelle) Hendrickx
- Dr. H. (Hafez) Ismaïli M’hamdi
- Prof. Dr. M.J. (Majone) Steketee
- Mr. B.R. (Bart) Tromp, LL.M.
- Prof. Dr. M.J.W. (Mark) van Twist
The commission will gather insights and experiences from professionals, parents, and young people who have been affected by government intervention in families. In addition to interim reports, the state commission will submit its final report by April 1, 2028.