Nederlands Fotomuseum director fired after investigation finds withheld information
The director of the Nederlands Fotomuseum in Rotterdam, Birgit Donker, has been dismissed following an internal investigation triggered by staff complaints, NOS reported. Donker was placed on administrative leave last month, the museum’s supervisory board announced.
The investigation uncovered repeated instances in which Donker withheld or misrepresented information, according to the supervisory board. While acknowledging her many achievements at the museum since she took over in 2018, the board said, “This must never come at the expense of employees’ social safety and mental health.” The board also cited an attempt by Donker to improperly influence oversight, which resulted in a reported breach of trust.
The inquiry was initiated after staff raised concerns about a culture of fear and a toxic work environment under Donker’s leadership. Donker disputes this characterization. She said previous investigations within the museum found no such issues and said she does not recognize the findings of the recent probe.
In a statement on Instagram, Donker expressed disappointment with the board’s decision. “I have learned with great disappointment of the board’s decision to dismiss me, based on an investigation they conducted themselves,” she wrote. “I have felt unheard and disbelieved throughout the process.” Donker said she is considering her next steps.
Before joining the Nederlands Fotomuseum, Donker served as editor-in-chief at NRC. The museum’s board is currently considering candidates for her replacement.
