Is there any research that started back then that you are still working on?
One of the core tasks of the CPG, both then and now, is research that leads to publications in our series Parliamentary History of the Netherlands after 1945. Ten volumes have now been published, each containing an in-depth analysis of a period in post-war parliamentary history. Currently, we are working on volume 11, which deals with politics and policy during the Lubbers cabinets (1982-1994). Another regular component is the Parliamentary History Yearbook, which we have been publishing since 1999. In the Yearbook, we pick a current theme and provide it with historical interpretation. The 2025 Yearbook’s theme was “Parliament and politics in times of war”, with contributions on the history of Dutch security policy and integrity issues surrounding major military expenditure in the past and present.
And how has the CPG developed?
Scientific research into the history of politics and democracy has expanded enormously both nationally and internationally in recent decades. We try to contribute to this with publications and by sharing our knowledge at conferences. And we use the new insights we gain elsewhere in our current research, for example with regard to the impact of new ideas about economics, security and good governance on politics. The CPG has also broadened its horizons in other ways. For instance, we have a permanent place in education; together with the History programme, we offer the Master’s programme Politics&Parliament. It is considered very useful, and many of our alumni find jobs in politics, governance and journalism. We consider this connection with education at the Faculty of Arts to be important. Of course, we also supervise students writing their theses and doctoral candidates working on their doctoral research.
What is also striking is the increased demand from the media for interpretation of parliamentary events. This is, of course, also a reaction to the rapid changes in the Netherlands and abroad. History can provide a framework. Questions such as: “Has there ever been a minority government before, and how does that fit in Dutch political culture?” or “How has the Dutch premiership changed and what does that mean for new prime minister Rob Jetten?”. We have written several books and biographies on prime ministers.
What makes your research into parliamentary history so relevant?
As parliamentary historians, we can put contemporary events into perspective. People often claim that something is happening for the first time or is radically new. We can substantiate or nuance such claims. For example, by delving into sources such as the “Proceedings,” or parliamentary debates. These are a rich source that provides valuable insight into how the major issues of the day, such as economic crises or international conflicts, were viewed over time. By comparing these debates with other sources, such as newspapers or diplomatic documents, it is noticeable that the “The Hague” perspective is sometimes different from the perspective outside of that area. And if the distance becomes to great, this has sometimes led to criticism of politicians regarding “that they do not know what is going on in the country or on the world stage” in the past. But history also provides fine examples of how politicians in our democracy have shown themselves willing to tackle problems and initiate change. That is encouraging, especially in times like these, when full and semi-autocracies are on the rise and governments in democratic countries are often accused of “not getting anything done”. Certainly, things go wrong, even in the Netherlands, but historically speaking, that is a far too one-sided view of reality. In order to nuance such views and to arm ourselves morally in defence of democracy, we need to conduct systematic historical research into politics and policy. That makes our work more relevant than ever.
