Cutbacks in international cooperation

The Dutch Cabinet (kabinet, which is composed of all government ministers), that took office in 2024 introduced major cutbacks in international cooperation. Together with many other civil-society organisations, we demonstrated the far-reaching and negative consequences of these cuts.

Mondiaal FNV’s response to the coalition agreement

International cooperation, as pursued by Mondiaal FNV with trade unions and workers worldwide, is essential to counter the race to the bottom that results in increasingly adverse employment conditions. Because the Netherlands is not an island, this competitive race also affects the Dutch working population. With the announced course, the Dutch government contributes to workers being played off against each other globally, and it undermines its own efforts to ensure socio-economic security.

Solidarity does not stop at national borders

Solidarity is at the heart of the trade union movement, and it does not stop at national borders. Mondiaal FNV works towards an international democratic society, solidarity with colleagues worldwide, and shared responsibility for peace. We collaborate with local and international trade unions to achieve improvements through collective agreements on terms and conditions of employment, decent work, and socio-economic security for millions of workers and their families worldwide. We expect the Dutch government to share that ambition. Unfortunately, the new government coalition has opted for a retrenchment operation that will put the country’s reputation, commitment, and knowledge in this field in jeopardy, harm its international standing, and erode civil society.

If the world is on fire, we need to help put out the flames. Otherwise, the fire will eventually reach our own doorstep.

Karen Brouwer
Executive Director of Mondiaal FNV

Everybody deserves decent work. Safe work. Not only in the Netherlands but worldwide. Not tomorrow but right now. This is what Mondiaal FNV fights for. We campaign, strengthen trade unions, and fight for decent work. Because together we stand strong for fair labour. With nearly 50 years of experience, we know how to make an impact. We know the challenges, and speak with workers every day to ensure their voices are heard. Every year, our work impacts the lives of tens of millions of people. Together with us, workers from all over the world can stand up for their rights.

 

International cooperation. Right now!

The new coalition plans to cut back substantially on international cooperation. That is why we are taking action. Now, more than ever, cooperation is crucial for a sustainable, hopeful future.

We are currently facing major challenges. Around the world, people are fighting against climate and natural disasters, wars, exploitation, poverty, and inequality. In order not to abandon the world, we must immediately stop the cuts to international cooperation.

Sign the petition! 

(This was a post on LinkedIn)

 

The Netherlands disappearing from the map

You’ve got mail! ✉️ Every member of the Dutch Lower House has received a personal postcard.
Under Prime Minister Schoof’s leadership, the Dutch government wants to cut back considerably on development cooperation. From 2027, these cuts will amount to as much as 2.4 billion euros a year.

This means that very little will remain of the already limited budget available for international cooperation. With one ill-considered stroke of the pen, the proposed cutbacks threaten to destroy people’s crucial work worldwide and the Netherlands’ international standing. The Netherlands is at risk of disappearing from the global stage.

The senders of the postcards come from all over the world. They share how, in cooperation with the Netherlands, they are working on solutions regarding today’s major challenges: namely, international security, climate change, and a more just world for everyone. Through its partnership with local farmers, activists, and entrepreneurs, the Netherlands has earned international recognition.

Our joint message today is clear: With the proposed cutbacks, the Netherlands is not only abandoning its responsibility to the world but also undermining its own position and influence. To make sure the Netherlands does not disappear from the map, the cutbacks must be reversed.

Please sign the petition if you support our appeal.

(This was a post on LinkedIn)