Let’s not lose each other, says King in Christmas message

King Willem-Alexander gives his Christmas speech.Photo: Bart Mart

In his annual Christmas message to the nation, King Willem-Alexander spoke of the ‘shadow’ over the Netherlands due to financial instability, climate change and the war in Ukraine.

The King stressed the importance of continuing to listen to people who think differently.

“Democracy does not mean that those who shout will give way,” said the King. ‘Democracy means respecting the basic rights of all and working together for solutions that the majority can relate to.‘

The King said it was important to consider everyone’s interests. “Let’s not let each other lose,” he said. “Give each other the benefit of the doubt… My call to each of you is to participate, listen, think together and participate!

The king also elaborated on the Dutch government’s apology last week for the Dutch role in slavery.

“Over the last year, my wife and I have talked about this topic with people of all ages, including descendants of people who lived in slavery several generations ago. ‘We remain involved in this memorable year.

2023 marks 150 years since slavery was finally abolished in the Dutch colonies.

Today, the King said, no one is responsible for the day’s inhumane acts. But by acknowledging the mistakes of the past, “together we are laying the foundations for building the future.”

Read the speech (Dutch)