The controversial Dutch politician has won the most seats in parliament, but may still find it expedient to be the junior partner in a coalition government
To understand the politics of “Bersiap”, we must refrain from the dichotomous framing of Netherlands/Indonesia as us/them that has plagued years of public debate on the two countries’ colonial past.
The March elections in the Netherlands, and the fact that a government still hasn’t been formed, illustrate both the benefits and problems with proportional representation.
As the anniversary of Indonesian independence from the Netherlands approaches, a close look reveals how Dutch policy divides people along racial lines and ignores the Indonesian dead in that war.
The abolition of citizen referendums in the Netherlands will do little to remedy the distrust in the political system – and could strengthen Geert Wilders’ far-right party.