Dutch Coalition Survives Crisis Over Soccer Violence

Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof managed to save his governing coalition from collapse after the resignation of State Secretary for Finance Nora Achahbar, who protested perceived racist remarks regarding violence against Israeli soccer fans in Amsterdam on November 7. Achahbar's departure, along with threats from four other ministers in her centrist party, the New Social Contract (NSC), prompted a crisis meeting that ultimately concluded with the coalition deciding to remain intact. The violence, described by Amsterdam's mayor as a mix of 'antisemitism and hooliganism', involved assaults on Maccabi fans and was condemned by various political leaders. Achahbar, a Moroccan-born former judge, expressed that the recent societal polarization had impacted her ability to serve in the cabinet. Schoof emphasized that no racism exists within the coalition and reaffirmed their commitment to all Dutch citizens. The coalition, which includes right-wing parties, faced scrutiny over its handling of these sensitive issues.