Q&A: Prime Minister Dick Schoof Looks Back on 2025

Reflecting on 2025 Highlights

• 💡 The NATO Summit (NAV voor top) was the most memorable event, showcasing the Netherlands' capabilities and leading to a decision to strengthen defense and Europe.
• 👏 He praised the municipality of The Hague and the police for successfully organizing the summit, calling it a historic calling card.

On Leadership and Public Service

• ⚡ He maintains that he still approaches his work as Prime Minister with energy and pleasure, considering it an incredible honor to serve and represent the Netherlands.
• 🎯 The most rewarding aspect of his role has been the direct conversations with people across the Netherlands and internationally, providing him with energy and connection.

Addressing Societal Challenges

• ⚠️ Acknowledges that criticism is part of public life, but expresses concern about the negative tone and intimidation on social media, urging for more respectful interaction.
• 💬 To combat polarization, he emphasizes the importance of respectful dialogue and listening to each other, citing his own conversations across diverse groups.
• 😔 The suffering caused by wars in Ukraine and Gaza was highlighted as the most difficult aspect of the year, acknowledging the cabinet's efforts to respond.

Challenges and Regrets

• 💔 His biggest regret is the inability to keep the cabinet together for the full four-year term, feeling responsible when parties could not or would not cooperate.
• 🚀 For future leaders, he wishes for a stable cabinet that can complete its term and make decisions that are good for the Netherlands, emphasizing internal cooperation.

Future Outlook and Personal Reflections

• 📚 He notes that everything about a Prime Minister becomes news, including a book written about him, and he will consider writing an autobiography after his premiership.
• ✨ Concludes by wishing everyone happy holidays and a prosperous 2026 filled with health, happiness, and love.