Amsterdam – King Willem-Alexander called for resilience, mutual solidarity, and the protection of the democratic rule of law during the traditional New Year’s Reception at the Royal Palace Amsterdam. In his address, the King emphasized that the Netherlands must remain steadfast in an uncertain and rapidly changing world, with cooperation and shared responsibility at the core.
The New Year’s Reception was attended by hundreds of guests from politics, public administration, and various sectors of society. This year, representatives from the arts and culture sector were also specifically invited. Queen Máxima, Princess Beatrix, Princess Margriet, and Professor Pieter van Vollenhoven were present as well.
International tensions and domestic pressure
In his speech, the King reflected on international developments that he said are increasingly being felt within the Netherlands. He pointed to the pressure on the international legal order and to conflicts in, among other places, Ukraine, Israel, and Sudan, which contribute to social tensions and emotional polarization at home. “Shockwaves from abroad reverberate through Dutch towns and cities,” the King said.
At the same time, he noted that the Netherlands faces far-reaching choices, including how to safeguard future prosperity and strengthen societal resilience. According to the King, there are no simple solutions, and broad public support is essential.
Protection of public office holders
The King expressed strong appreciation for administrators, elected representatives, and professionals who serve the public interest, both in the Netherlands and in the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom. He explicitly warned against threats, intimidation, and unfounded accusations directed at political office holders, judges, journalists, emergency workers, scientists, and artists, calling such actions an “unacceptable undermining of our collective freedom.”
With municipal elections approaching, the King stressed the importance of respecting and protecting those willing to stand for public office at the local level, noting that they deserve a safe environment for themselves and their families.
Culture as a unifying force
A significant part of the speech was devoted to the importance of arts and culture. According to the King, culture is a vital component of the identity and pride of cities and regions and plays a key role in creativity, openness, and social cohesion. For that reason, additional representatives of cultural institutions from across the country were invited this year.
Call at the start of 2026
The King concluded by urging people not only to ask what the new year will bring, but also what each individual can contribute to making 2026 a good year. He expressed hope that the year ahead will strengthen confidence in the future and encourage collective efforts to protect what is most valuable: freedom, the democratic rule of law, and a culture of creativity, openness, and care for one another.
Tomorrow, the Royal Couple will receive members of the diplomatic corps and representatives of international organizations.
