Dutch Parliament Urged to Prioritize Health and Innovation
Amsterdam, Friday, 31 October 2025.
Post-election, UMCNL calls on Dutch lawmakers to focus on health and innovation, emphasizing policy integration to tackle healthcare challenges and strengthen national resilience.
UMCNL’s Advocacy for Health Prioritization
The University Medical Centers of the Netherlands (UMCNL) have congratulated the newly elected members of the Tweede Kamer, urging them to prioritize health and innovation. The emphasis during the election campaign on healthcare issues reflects a broader consensus that these themes are paramount for the country’s future. UMCNL Chair Helen Mertens stressed the need for swift political action to ensure a stable government focusing on a healthy future and resilient healthcare [1].
Vision for a Healthier Future
UMCNL’s call to action includes integrating health into all policy domains, suggesting measures such as adapting the healthcare system to reward preventive care and introducing ambitious plans like legal health targets or a sugar tax. Furthermore, UMCNL advocates for enhanced collaboration within the healthcare sector, leveraging existing agreements to combat fragmentation and protect against potential threats, including climate change and pandemics [1].
Investing in Knowledge and Innovation
In alliance with the Knowledge Coalition, UMCNL is pushing for a commitment to invest at least 3% of the country’s GDP in research and innovation. This investment is deemed essential for maintaining the Netherlands’ competitive edge and ensuring that healthcare remains available, affordable, and of high quality. UMCNL is positioned to work closely with political leaders to translate governmental plans into practical outcomes at the operational level [1].
Broader Political Context
The broader political landscape in the Netherlands highlights a significant focus on innovation and economic growth. Political figures like VVD’s Dieke van Groningen emphasize the necessity of supporting entrepreneurs and sustaining an innovative economy, echoing calls for a future-oriented development strategy [2]. Meanwhile, discussions on energy and mobility innovations underline the country’s commitment to sustainable development, as seen in projects like the OV-Energiebank system in Rotterdam [3].