News item | 15-07-2022 | 4:00 pm
The advisory committee ‘Strengthening the resilience of the democratic legal order’ will conduct broad research into the development of (political) polarization, radicalization and extremism and how this affects the democratic legal order. Mayor of Arnhem Ahmed Marcouch is appointed chairman of the advisory committee. The investigation follows the motion of Member of Parliament Segers. The motion came about as a result of the debate on the government statement.
Bruins Slot: ‘Radicalization and polarization are putting our democracy and society under increasing pressure. An example of this is the alarming increase in the number of threats and intimidation of, among others, mayors, police officers and civil servants. It is important to look deeper into the causes and solutions. It is therefore valuable that the advisory committee will issue advice on how the resilience of our democratic legal order can be strengthened. Democracy is not a peaceful possession and must be protected and maintained.’
In the coming year, the committee has been asked to conduct a broad investigation into various topics, such as the decline in trust, polarisation, radicalisation, extremism, social dividing lines and strengthening the democratic constitutional state. A number of research questions have been formulated on which the committee can issue its advice. Contradictions between citizens and a critical attitude towards government and politics are part of a healthy democratic legal order. When do statements become problematic because they may put pressure on the free public debate and thus the democratic legal order? Which are permissible, but also problematic because they put pressure on the democratic legal order? What role do the internet and social media play in this? What are the preconditions needed for people to experience a greater sense of trust and connection? What can government and politicians do about this? An explicit appeal is made to also consult society on this issue, where it actually takes place in society.
Marcouch: ‘I am happy to take up the advisory committee for our democratic legal order as a mission against disruption of our society. I hope to come up with wise recommendations with expert scientists and experienced people who come everywhere, including digitally and in associations. We are going to offer the cabinet and the House of Representatives a broad perspective for action to protect our freedom and security. Let’s restore trust in this way and bring everyone into our society.’
The other members of the committee will be appointed after the summer. The advisory committee has been asked to submit its final report to the Ministers of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Social Affairs and Employment and Justice and Security before 1 October 2023.