Freedom of speech

The Dutch constitution protects the freedom of speech and states that the central government is obliged to create adequate conditions for the cultural development of all citizens. Dutch cultural policy is based on the premise that the state should distance itself from judgements regarding the value of art. Artistic development is free; it is the result of initiatives of private citizens and a large number of foundations dedicated to culture. When the central government, municipalities or provinces take funding decisions, they do not judge the artistic quality. This is left to independent committees, funds or advisory boards. In the main policy document for 2018-2021 “Cultuur in een open samenleving” (Culture in an open society), Ingrid van Engelshoven, Minister for Education, Culture and Science, states: “Cultuur geeft uitdrukking aan essentiële waarden als vrijheid van meningsuiting, tolerantie en culturele diversiteit”(Culture, heritage included, gives voice to essential values like freedom of expression, tolerance and diversity). For further details: Compendium of Cultural Policies and Trends, chapters 4.1.1 and 4.1.2. Dutch media operate on the basis of freedom of speech and independence. The government is not allowed to interfere in media. The Dutch government sees it as its responsibility to provide a good climate for media pluralism and access to free, pluralistic, independent and reliable information of high quality. For that purpose, the government enables an independent representative public broadcasting system with the obligation to offer high-quality, varied and balanced content. The principles governing the organisation, funding and tasks of these public broadcasters are laid down in the Mediawet 2008 (Dutch Media Act).