Less space for criticism: Warning for Dutch Democracy
A recent CIVICUS Monitor report, People Power Under Attack, highlights a growing global trend of shrinking civil liberties. Long recognized as a strong advocate for human rights and democracy, the Netherlands has now lost its status as an “open” country. CIVICUS has classified the civil liberties situation in the Netherlands as “narrowed” over the past year—a stark warning not only for the country, but for the wider world about the increasing suppression of civil freedoms, even in so-called more established democracies.
The decline in civil space we are witnessing in the Netherlands is part of a broader European trend. Across the continent, fundamental rights are under threat, and the Netherlands is no exception. In the past year, opportunities for citizens to voice their concerns and organize critically have significantly diminished. Rights such as the freedom to protest are facing increasing restrictions, placing the very foundation of a free society at risk.
Aïcha Chaghouani of the Netherlands Helsinki Committee, speaking at the Global Assessment on Civic Freedoms event on December 11, 2024, reflected on the precarious state of civic space in Europe and Central Asia.
Right to protest: an increasingly fragile freedom
The right to protest is often the first fundamental freedom to be curtailed in the face of democratic decline. In the Netherlands, groups advocating for climate action and pro-Palestinian protestors are facing growing barriers to their right to protest. Local authorities are increasingly rejecting protests in key locations, imposing unjustifiable demands on organizers, and using public order as a pretext to ban or limit demonstrations.
This trend is concerning not just because it undermines the right to free speech, but because it signals a deeper political shift. Peaceful protests are increasingly labeled as criminal activities, with some political figures even advocating for harsher penalties for civil disobedience movements like climate groups. In some instances, protesters are being labeled as terrorists—a dangerous step that signals the narrowing of space for peaceful resistance.
Civil Society Organisations: from partners to threats
Another disturbing development is the rise of legislative proposals that further restrict the activities of civil society organisations (CSOs). In the Netherlands, there is an ongoing debate over the “transparency of civil society organizations” law, which does not offer adequate safeguards against selective enforcement or the stigmatisation of certain groups. This is part of a global trend where governments use “transparency” and countering foreign influence as pretexts to undermine critical voices and independent organisations. What was once seen as a strength—vibrant, active civil society—is now increasingly viewed by political leaders as an obstacle to societal “order” and “peace.”
Lessons from Europe: vigilance and solidarity
The erosion of democracy often starts with small, seemingly inconspicuous acts that, over time, accumulate into a serious threat to the rule of law and fundamental freedoms. This has already been observed in countries like Poland and Hungary, where democratic backsliding was gradual but persistent. The lessons from these countries must be heeded not only at the national level, but globally. Democratic values are fragile, and we cannot take them for granted. It is imperative that we recognize these early warning signs and take decisive action—both within current political coalitions and through cross-sector collaboration. Only through unity and solidarity can we ensure that the space for democratic activism is preserved.
The situation in the Netherlands is concerning, but it also presents an opportunity for reflection and collective action. It is vital that we, as a society, do not simply observe the dangers looming over our democracy but take tangible steps to protect it. Politicians, policymakers, and citizens must recognize that the erosion of individual freedoms is not an abstract concern—it is a direct threat to democracy itself.
The Netherlands should look to countries resisting authoritarianism as models of resilience, standing united in defense of democratic values. This requires both political courage and the power of grassroots social movements. By sharing knowledge and experiences with our European neighbors and taking coordinated action, we can respond robustly to the threats facing democratic principles worldwide.
