Dutch king warns divided public not to “import bitterness and hatred” in Christmas talk

Dutch King Willem-Alexander told those living in the Netherlands that the country is not to be used as a proxy battleground for conflicts taking place elsewhere in the world. The country is one in which everyone is equal, regardless of religious affiliation or a lack of belief, and that people must not “import bitterness and hatred” and bring it into “our streets,” he said during his national Christmas address.

The king’s annual speech often promotes unity among the country’s diverse population groups. However, his Wednesday address from Huis ten Bosch palace was perhaps his most pointed and focused.

While acknowledging that global conflicts and challenges are beyond the control of individuals, the king urged citizens to take a stand against "importing bitterness and hatred" into their neighborhoods. "What we can do is ensure that the bitterness and hatred from elsewhere do not infiltrate our streets," he said.

"The tensions are palpable, both internationally and domestically," the king said. "Many people feel misunderstood, unwanted, unprotected. Where do you find support? Who can you still trust?"

The king emphasized the importance of protecting the rights and dignity of every individual, citing examples of rising fears among Jewish and Muslim communities in the Netherlands.

In a poignant moment, King Willem-Alexander referenced his recent conversations with Jewish students at Amsterdam's Maimonides school. "They shared what it is like to study in a place secured with fences and how they feel the need to remain inconspicuous on the street or in public transport," he said. "Being yourself and peacefully showing who you are should be self-evident for everyone in the Netherlands. But it isn’t."

The king also highlighted the stories of Palestinian-Dutch families he met in Vlaardingen. These families, some of whom arrived in the Netherlands 60 years ago as migrant workers, expressed fear and helplessness over the plight of their relatives in their homeland. "Time and again, I am moved by the personal pain reflected in these stories," the king stated.

He called on the Dutch people to uphold the nation's core principles: equality before the law, zero tolerance for discrimination, and rejection of violence. "These principles are not open to dialogue or debate and apply to everyone, always," the king said.

The monarch offered words of encouragement to communities who feel marginalized. To Jewish citizens considering leaving the Netherlands, he said, "Stay. We belong together." Addressing Dutch Muslims, he affirmed, "This is also your country."

The king underscored the universal emotions shared by all people—worry for their children’s safety, anger at injustices, and the need for connection. "What are your fears? What are your dreams? Our answers to these questions are not so different," he said.

King Willem-Alexander reflected on the power of empathy, encouraging individuals to "rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn." He described simple acts of kindness, such as listening and being present for one another, as ways to heal collective and individual pain.

The address ended with the king extending his wishes for peace and hope. "I wish you all—wherever you are and whatever your personal circumstances—a blessed Christmas," he said.