In the House of Representatives, a commemoration took place on Tuesday, March 18, following the passing of Hans van den Broek. He served in various positions for the CDA from 1976 to 1999. Van den Broek passed away on February 22, 2025, at the age of 88.
Between 1976 and 1981, Van den Broek was a member of the House of Representatives. Initially for the Catholic Peoples Party (KVP) and later for the CDA, into which the KVP had merged. He subsequently held positions as State Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and member of the European Commission. In 2005, Van den Broek was appointed Minister of State.
Significant Impact on Foreign Policy
Van den Broek was the second-longest-serving Minister of Foreign Affairs, holding the position for over 10 years. “In that capacity, he left a significant mark on Dutch foreign policy,” said Chairman Martin Bosma during the commemoration. “He also, together with Prime Minister Lubbers, laid the foundation for the Maastricht Treaty, which was successfully concluded in 1992 after a very bumpy road.”
When Does the House of Representatives Commemorate?
In the House of Representatives, commemorations take place upon the death of heads of state of countries with which the Netherlands maintains close allied relations. These include member states of the European Union, the Council of Europe, and NATO. Additionally, plenary commemorations occur upon the death of members of the Royal House, Ministers of State, and former House Chairs, Prime Ministers, and faction leaders. Commemorations also take place upon the death of sitting members of the House and officials working in the House of Representatives.
Watch and Read More
Prime Minister Dick Schoof also delivered a commemorative speech. Watch the full commemoration via External link:Debat Direct and read the full speech by Chairman Bosma.