Dear colleague,

Our society is facing multiple complex challenges: the Covid-19 pandemic, climate change, biodiversity loss, as well as the housing and nitrogen crises. The response from government, business and society seems to be mostly reactive and status quo-oriented: it lacks vision and strategy to proactively address the major transitions we face.

We are now facing a new government formation. As articulated by Prof. Derk Loorbach, Dutch society thus "faces the choice of an interim coalition or a transition cabinet." This choice concerns more than just a new style of government: it is about a choice for long-term sustainability, social renewal and a philosophy of governance to achieve it.

“Together with scientists from all over the Netherlands we want to send a strong signal to the formation table that we must choose structural solutions for our problems. Not party programs, but social transition agendas should be the starting point.”

On April 30 we will therefore make the following appeal on Dutch politicians and policymakers. Do you agree with this call? Then click here to ensure that your name also appears under the call.

Our call

• Acknowledge in words and policy the gravity of the current crises.
• Outline in the coalition agreement the main principles that offer hope for the long term: sustainability, health, democracy, inclusiveness and justice.
• Like the social partners, place broad prosperity at the heart of both thought and action, so that everyone benefits from positive (economic) developments within the limits of what the earth can bear.
• In consultation with society, look for the best practices and institutions to sustainably improve the resilience and health of people and nature.
• Make use of the accumulating knowledge of Dutch science in tackling complex problems: we are ready to help, in theory and in practice.

There are loud calls for both conservation and radical change. Yet even the advocates of conservation are often dissatisfied with the path they have chosen. This paradox creates space for courage and political renewal. It creates space for innovators and the established order to make the desired transitions together. We ask for this courage. Civil society, businesses and civil servants will respond with the will, knowledge and creativity to push through the change.

“Don’t let this be an interim coalition towards further fragmentation, but a transition government that, together with us, sets the stage for a sustainable and just future for all..”

Do you agree with this call? Follow this link to sign it!