The Netherlands has historically experienced short-lived cabinets, averaging less than two years since World War II, a trend that some observers believe benefits the country.

The argument suggests that a short tenure allows ministers a brief window to introduce innovative plans before civil servants and the House of Representatives assess them, preventing more disastrous, long-term policies. Examples of short-lived symbolic measures include adjusting speed limits and reviewing media content. The swift changes mean new governments are constantly undoing their predecessors’ policies.

While some express concern that frequent policy shifts create unpredictability for businesses, data from countries with short-term governments, such as Belgium and Finland, indicates that their economies often outperform those with more stable governments, like France, Great Britain, and Germany.

Despite its history of “squabbling cabinets,” the Netherlands transformed from an impoverished nation in 1945 into one of the world’s most prosperous countries. Looking ahead, potential future coalitions may face difficulties implementing key policy proposals, such as tax increases on corporations and the wealthy, due to internal disagreements and European Union regulations.

Following upcoming elections, a new set of ministers will emerge with promises of solutions, only to face scrutiny from media commentators. Despite the constant turnover of ministers and policy changes, the media landscape remains consistent.