nuOct 2, 2026, 09:55

Dutch royals were involved in colonialism with conviction and no reservations

An extensive research study commissioned by King Willem-Alexander has revealed that the House of Orange-Nassau was actively and deliberately involved in the Dutch colonial past. The findings, presented by a team of sixty researchers at Leiden University, reflect the King's ongoing efforts to address and apologize for his ancestors' historical actions.

A comprehensive research project initiated by King Willem-Alexander has concluded that the House of Orange-Nassau was deeply involved in the history of Dutch colonialism. Led by emeritus professor Gert Oostindie, the study involved approximately sixty researchers over several years and culminated in the publication of five books, including a summary volume titled Oranje en de Koloniën, 1600-2025. The findings, which were presented at Leiden University, shed light on the extent of royal involvement in colonial activities.

King Willem-Alexander commissioned this investigation in 2022 to clarify his ancestors' roles in the colonial past. This effort follows the King's previous actions regarding historical accountability, including his formal apology for the Dutch role in slavery and the cessation of his use of the Golden Coach. Researchers noted that the monarch demonstrated significant initiative in confronting these sensitive historical issues, marking a shift in how the royal family addresses the legacy of the Dutch colonial era.

Politics Culture Netherlands World

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Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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