Dutch King Willem-Alexander has issued a public apology for the Netherlands’ historic involvement in slavery and the lasting effects it has had on society. Speaking at an event in Amsterdam commemorating the 160th anniversary of the abolition of slavery, the king acknowledged the country’s role in this “crime against humanity” and asked for forgiveness. He also highlighted the ongoing issue of racism in Dutch society and recognized that not everyone would support his apology. However, he expressed optimism that times have changed and that the chains of slavery have truly been broken.
The apology comes at a time when the Netherlands is reevaluating its colonial past, including its participation in the Atlantic slave trade and slavery in its former Asian colonies. In 2020, King Willem-Alexander apologized in Indonesia for the “excessive violence” during Dutch colonial rule. Prime Minister Mark Rutte has also acknowledged the Dutch state’s responsibility in the slave trade and profiting from it, issuing his own apology in December.
Despite these apologies, the Dutch government has stated that it will not provide reparations, as recommended by an advisory panel in 2021. However, a government-commissioned study published last month revealed that the House of Orange, including the royal family, profited by around $600 million in modern terms from Dutch colonies between 1675 and 1770. The royal family has commissioned an independent investigation into their role in colonial history, with results expected in 2025.
King Willem-Alexander’s apology has been met with mixed reactions, with some expressing support and others expressing skepticism. However, the king’s acknowledgment of the Netherlands’ dark past and his commitment to addressing racism and inequality are steps towards reconciliation and healing. As the nation commemorates the anniversary of the abolition of slavery, the apology serves as a reminder of the importance of confronting and learning from history.