Dutch royal house benefitted from colonial policies, study shows

An extensive study commissioned by King Willem-Alexander has revealed that the Dutch royal house reaped significant benefits from the Netherlands' colonial policies and slave trade throughout history. This insight comes after the Dutch government acknowledged its responsibility for transatlantic slavery in 2022 and King Willem-Alexander apologized for slavery in 2023.

The research, conducted by Dutch historians and human rights experts over a three-year period, examined the impact of the Dutch colonial rule from 1600 to the present day. The findings indicate that the House of Orange-Nassau, which has ruled the Netherlands since the late 16th century, wholeheartedly participated in and supported the survival of the Dutch slave trade and slavery without objection from most rulers.

The Dutch colonial empire included vast territories in Southeast Asia and the Caribbean, such as present-day Indonesia and Suriname. The researchers estimate that the royal family earned around $650 million in modern terms from the trade in the Dutch East Indies during the 19th century. However, the family's earnings from the slave trade were comparatively modest.

The study highlights that the legacy of colonialism and slavery continues to affect the Netherlands today, manifesting in discrimination and economic exploitation. While the government ruled out reparations in 2022 and created a €200 million fund for social initiatives, anti-racism campaigners view this as insufficient. The National Institute for the Dutch Slavery Past and Heritage praised King Willem-Alexander for commissioning the study but stressed that it should lead to further action.