The support for the principle of democracy in the Netherlands is solid, just as in other European countries. Ninety-three percent of Dutch citizens find democracy the best form of government for their country, and 95 percent find it important to live in a country that is ruled by a democratic government. In the first half of this year, 73 percent of the population gave a grade of ‘sufficient’ for the functioning of democracy in the Netherlands.

Many Dutch associate democracy especially with freedom (freedom of expression, freedom to do what one likes and a free country) and the ability to make decisions, such as the right to vote in free elections to determine representation. If people are to judge Dutch democracy, they are more positive about freedoms and the protection of rights in the Netherlands than about democracy as a decision-making procedure.

Dissatisfied with politics

Citizens are less satisfied about politics than they are about democracy. People are mainly dissatisfied about the political practice. The research shows that politicians don’t listen to common people, they do what they want, are only focused on their own interests, or talk too much and do too little.

"You may vote what you want, but basically everything has been defined already," a 31-year-old woman who participated in the research said. She gave an F to the functioning of Dutch democracy. "The things the gents and the ladies want to happen, they will happen."

"Democracy as a form of government works fine, but unfortunately it’s the politicians that make a mess of it," said a 30-year-old man who graded it with an A.

Citizens want more influence

Citizens want more influence and a greater say. Fifty-five percent think mayors should be chosen directly. They believe citizens should have a greater say in the policies and think the referendum is suitable in decision making on the most important issues.

When people are faced with the choice between as many referendums as possible, or politicians taking decisions, a plurality (45%) prefers representation to as many as referendums as possible. Twenty-two percent say they prefer referendums to representation. Besides, not everyone is as much inclined to join actively. Furthermore, doubts exist about the democratic competences of fellow citizens. There is weak support for a system in which decisions are taken by entrepreneurs or independent experts.

Read the full study here (in Dutch). For a summary in English, click here.