Elites Bankroll Dutch Politics, Stifle Dissent

Powerful interests undermine democracy with donations and lobbying, critics say.

A new initiative called “Vote Before Stability,” spearheaded by media and advertising executives, aims to influence the upcoming elections by funneling millions into campaigns for mainstream political parties; critics decry the effort as an attempt by elites to further consolidate their power and wealth.

“Vote Before Stability” Initiative

Launched at **Sijthoff’s** Herring Party, the “Vote Before Stability” initiative, led by **Willem Sijthoff** (**Sijthoff** Media), **Simon Neefjes** (formerly of Tbwa Neboko), **David Snellenberg** (Bureau Dawn), and **Ralph Wisbrun** (Lucas Bols), intends to use substantial funds to support VVD, CDA, and D66. Their predictable message is that “The Netherlands suffers from instability” and “The truth is in the middle.”

However, according to critics, this so-called “middle” ground serves to protect the privileges of the wealthy. They assert that it is an ideological construct, similar to **Tony Blair’s** Third Way and the Dutch “purple” coalition of the 90s, designed to neutralize progressive movements behind a facade of reasonableness.

Wealth Disparity in the Netherlands

Economist **Simon Toussaint** found earlier this year that the richest 1% in the Netherlands control nearly 30% of the country’s assets, while the top 0.1% holds 16%. The richest 10% own 56% of total wealth.

These figures, which do not fully account for capital hidden in foundations and trusts, demonstrate a significant concentration of economic power in the hands of a few, influencing political discourse and policy.

Corporate Influence on Climate Policy

The fossil fuel lobby, including companies like Shell, Tata Steel, and FrieslandCampina, exerts pressure on policymakers to weaken or delay climate regulations. They often operate behind the scenes through organizations like VNO-NCW and Businesseurope, where Shell admits to having a structural impact on climate and energy policy, as noted in the Betrouwbare Bronnen podcast.

Notably, a recent report by Oxfam found that the richest 1% of the world’s population are responsible for more carbon emissions than the poorest 50% (Oxfam, 2023), underscoring the disproportionate impact of the wealthy on environmental issues.

Donations and Political Influence

Examples of large donations influencing policy decisions are not isolated incidents. **René Moos** (Basic-Fit) donated €100,000 to the VVD and saw favorable policies for cheap sports facilities. **Frank van Gool** (Otto Workforce) gave €200,000 and became an “independent expert” on migration. **Cor van Zadelhoff** raised €1.2 million for the VVD, leading to relaxed rental sector regulations and the abolition of landlord tax.

Meanwhile, mainstream media outlets contribute to the illusion of balance by presenting “middle voices” as reasonable and portraying climate activists as hysterical. The NRC, for instance, publishes “Vote Before Stability” messages uncritically, treating them as independent analysis rather than coordinated elite campaigns.

Shift in Political Priorities

Previously, tech billionaire **Steven Schuurman** invested €1 million in D66 to prioritize climate action. However, his support decreased to €100,000 by 2023, and climate advocacy seemed to take a backseat.

While Volt Europe received €750,000 from **Schuurman** in 2023, **Rob Jetten** shifted to a more moderate stance, prioritizing construction and asylum quotas over climate justice. As **Schuurman’s** funding dwindles, groups like “Vote Before Stability” step in to support VVD, CDA, and D66, pushing them towards the center.

Global Trend of Dark Money in Politics

The influence of private money in politics extends beyond the Netherlands. International “Dark Money” networks in the US and the UK demonstrate how elites use opaque structures to sway elections while presenting themselves as apolitical philanthropists.

Similarly, when **Hugo de Jonge** was leader, CDA struggled to attract funding, but after **Wopke’s** leadership, donations surged. **Hans van der Wind** donated €1.2 million in 2021 and benefited from an amendment favoring his school leadership company.

Countering the Elite Influence

GroenLinks-PvdA has an opportunity to challenge the elite and advocate for those affected by inequality. While Voor Ons Nederland warns against being “hostage by the extreme parties on the right and left,” this position overlooks the fact that the Quote 500 has benefited from policies that squeezed workers and tenants.

Call to Action

Therefore, GroenLinks/PvdA should not conform to the established order but instead disrupt the system and challenge the privileges of the wealthy. It is time to demand transparency in political financing by prohibiting donations from companies and millionaires.

Ultimately, real stability will only be achieved when the system that perpetuates this inequality is dismantled. The need for a true, green, and left-wing movement is now.