Dutch politics

Dutch coalition parties D66, VVD and CDA divided over expanding boycott of Israeli settlements

Foreign Minister Berendsen in parliament. / photo: DD

On 22 September, the Netherlands will introduce a trade boycott on products originating from Israeli settlements in occupied territories, marking one of the most significant Dutch measures against the settlement enterprise in years. Yet less than three weeks before the sanctions take effect, political divisions are already emerging over how far the restrictions should go and whether they should eventually be expanded. During a parliamentary debate on Wednesday, coalition parties D66, VVD and CDA publicly disagreed over the future direction of Dutch policy. Read on for the full story.

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Dutch watchdogs warn new spy law gives AIVD and MIVD sweeping powers: "Not in balance"

Why strikes are bringing the Netherlands to a standstill despite major cabinet concessions on welfare reforms

EU moves to shield Armenia from Russian trade pressure with new market access plan

Dutch parliament backs Israel settlement sanctions despite efforts to overturn them