Princess Laurentien's Involvement in Government Affairs

Princess Laurentien's Significant Role

Princess Laurentien stands at the center of ongoing discussions regarding her allocation of over a hundred million euros in government funds to the victims of the Toeslagen scandal. This action has not come without its challenges, as she faced stern confrontations with officials at the Ministry of Finance. Questions arise about the appropriateness of a royal member engaging so directly in such politically sensitive matters.

Political Unrest in the EU

In a significant turn of events, French Eurocommissioner Thierry Breton has resigned, which is quite rare. His departure coincides with Ursula von der Leyen's efforts to assemble a more gender-balanced European Commission. Although she has solicited member states to nominate both men and women, responses have been notably lacking, raising eyebrows about the underlying political dynamics.

Declining Vaccination Rates

Meanwhile, vaccination rates across the Netherlands for several contagious diseases continue to decline. The RIVM sets a critical threshold of 90% immunization; however, in areas like The Hague, rates drop to alarming lows, even beneath 60% in certain neighborhoods. Authorities are grappling with strategies to reverse this trend.

Proposed VAT Increase on Sports

In another notable development, the government aims to hike VAT from 9 to 21%, primarily affecting sports subscriptions, swimming lessons, and access to sporting events. This proposal is met with opposition from CDA and D66, supported by NOC*NSF, KNVB, and Platform Ondernemende Sporters, who believe it would detrimentally impact public health.