Influencers need to disclose lack of expertise with social posts, says Dutch lawmaker
The CDA is calling for stricter rules for influencers who share advice on topics like health, diet, and personal finance. According to the proposal, they would have to clearly indicate whether they have professional expertise, and if not, disclose this prominently through a disclaimer or hashtag. Some of the hashtags mentioned by the coalition party include #NotAnExpert, #NoCredentials, and #NoQualification, RTL reports.
The CDA argues that the measure is needed because many young people rely on platforms like TikTok and Instagram for information. According to the party, influencers sometimes spread unverified or misleading advice, which can be particularly harmful in areas such as health and personal finance, including supplements and “get-rich-quick” investment schemes.
According to CDA MP Jantine Zwinkels, there is “too much free rein for nonsense on social media,” and users need better protection. VVD and D66 are also signalling support for tighter regulation, amid widespread concern in the Tweede Kamer, the lower house of Dutch parliament, over the spread of online misinformation.
The proposal calls for mandatory, clearly visible disclaimers to be included directly in social media posts or videos, with the possibility of legal enforcement rather than voluntary compliance. It would resemble existing regulations for labels such as #advertising or #paidpartnership, but would shift the focus to whether the creator has verified expertise instead of commercial relationships.
The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) currently oversees influencer activity for misleading commercial practices, including undisclosed advertising and inaccurate or deceptive claims.
The proposal fits within a wider European shift toward tighter oversight of online platforms, including regulations such as the Digital Services Act and the Digital Markets Act. These frameworks oblige major platforms to identify and reduce systemic risks like misinformation through increased transparency and targeted mitigation measures.
In addition, France has already adopted some of the strictest influencer legislation in Europe, banning or limiting the promotion of certain cosmetic procedures and high-risk financial products.
