The government must set realistic expectations. It must do what it promises and only promise what it can deliver. Otherwise, citizens get caught in difficulties and the Netherlands increasingly comes to a standstill. This is stated by the National Ombudsman, the Vice-President of the Council of State, and the President of the Netherlands Court of Audit in a joint note to the forming parties. At the invitation of the informateur, Reinier van Zutphen, Thom de Graaf, and Pieter Duisenberg explained their recommendations today to the party leaders of D66, VVD, and CDA.
Passing on problems
It is often clear early on that government plans are difficult to implement, for example because there is too little money or staff or because plans conflict with international treaties. Yet they are continued. When things go wrong, the problems end up with implementing organizations, municipalities, or the courts. Ultimately, citizens pay the price.
Citizens have to wait a long time for solutions, get entangled in complicated rules, and remain uncertain about their future. As with asylum policy, the recovery operation for benefits, nitrogen, and nature restoration. This reduces trust in and the credibility of the government, which is important for a well-functioning democracy and rule of law.
What to do instead?
The government must set clear and achievable goals and be honest about what is and isn’t possible. The High Councils of State also advise simplifying laws and regulations. The government must show in advance which choices are necessary, what they cost, and what the consequences are. Furthermore, it must be clear whether measures really work and do not cause new problems. Implementing organizations and municipalities must be involved from the start to prevent problems earlier.
Together for a better government
The Netherlands faces major challenges. This requires a decisive government that works well together, listens, and dares to learn. This also includes opposition from parliament and High Councils of State. Policymakers, implementers, and governments must involve and listen to each other better. This creates plans that work in practice and fit the daily lives of citizens.
On December 1 last year, the High Councils of State organized the symposium ‘Towards a realistic government’. Insights from representatives from implementation, science, government, and civil society were included in the joint note containing concrete recommendations for a realistic government.
Read here the joint note of the High Councils of State to the negotiating parties