HealthNet TPO is deeply concerned by the recent announcement from the new Dutch government coalition regarding significant cuts to the development cooperation budget.
The plan outlines a reduction of 350 million euros by 2025, escalating to 550 million in 2026, and ultimately reaching a staggering 2.4 billion euros annually from 2027 onwards.
These cuts represent a significant setback, undermining global efforts to combat poverty, climate change, inequality, and injustice. In a period marked by geopolitical tensions and global challenges, such as widespread poverty, environmental crises, conflicts, and the weakening of the international legal order, it is more crucial than ever to intensify our development efforts.
Impact on the Development Sector
The ramifications of these budget cuts on the development sector would be profound. Access to healthcare and mental health services for communities at risk, especially women, girls and children, would be severely compromised. The reduction in funding would drastically hinder our ability to provide essential services and support to those most in need, worsening existing inequalities and health crises.
“These proposed budget cuts are a grave mistake that will have far-reaching consequences. Reducing our investment in development cooperation at a time when global challenges are more pressing than ever undermines our efforts to promote health, equality, and stability worldwide. We urge the government to reconsider these cuts and uphold our commitment to fostering a just and sustainable future for all.”
Hans Grootendorst, Director of HealthNet TPO
Appeal to the Coalition
In the face of crises, it is paramount to sustain investments in stability, peace, and security. HealthNet TPO strongly urges the coalition to honor international agreements and treaties, maintain the Netherlands’ leadership role on the global stage, and ensure an ongoing commitment to international cooperation. This commitment includes improving access to health services, particularly for people at risk, and supporting the growing global need for humanitarian assistance. Investing in these critical areas is essential for fostering a stable and just world.
Liana Hoornweg, Director of Partos—the trade association for development cooperation representing over 100 development organisations—emphasised, “In times of crisis, we must invest in sustainable development to ensure stability, peace, and security. These cuts are incomprehensible and shortsighted.”
HealthNet TPO stands firm in its opposition to these proposed cuts and calls for the coalition to reconsider its position for the sake of global development and humanitarian aid.
Take Action: Sign the Petition!
Join us and many other organizations in helping to stop these cuts. Together, we can work towards a liveable and hopeful future for everyone. It only takes one minute to make a difference. Sign the petition and reshare it. Don’t let the world down; take action now to stop the cuts in international cooperation.
