The FNV’s members’ parliament has rejected a recovery plan proposed by Lodewijk Asscher and Ton Heerts, throwing the future of the largest trade union in the Netherlands into further uncertainty. The vote, held at Hotel Leeuwenhorst, saw a narrow majority of 52 percent oppose the plan, which aimed to restructure the union and address a months-long crisis.

The core of the rejected plan involved replacing the existing members’ parliament with a union council chosen by sector councils, intending to create a stronger connection between parliamentarians and their respective sectors. Additionally, the plan proposed shifting the responsibility for appointing and controlling the board to the supervisory board.

The meeting at Hotel Leeuwenhorst was marked by tension and protest, with some members expressing concerns that the proposed changes would undermine member democracy. Prior to the vote, skepticism was voiced about the willingness of the members’ parliament to dissolve itself. During the meeting, three FNV members attempted to enter with protest signs highlighting what they perceived as conflicts between the plan and the FNV’s articles of association.

Asscher expressed his disappointment following the vote, stating that the members’ parliament had failed to make a decision about their own position. He emphasized the importance of a strong FNV, particularly in light of upcoming negotiations in The Hague that will affect working people. He further added that the FNV has been busy with itself for a year, while the Netherlands needs a strong FNV.

Despite the rejection, Alex Rutten, vice-chairman of the members’ parliament, stated that the body is in favor of a strong trade union and wants to emerge strongly from the crisis. She indicated a willingness to continue discussions with Asscher and Heerts and propose adjustments to the plan.

Asscher, however, viewed the attitude of the members’ parliament as a misrepresentation of the situation, stating that he misses the awareness of how important the task of a trade union is. He and Heerts will now consider their next steps in leading the FNV out of the crisis.