As the Netherlands prepares to celebrate Bevrijdingsdag on May 5, 2025, a growing debate surrounds the status of this important national holiday. Bevrijdingsdag, which commemorates the liberation from German occupation during World War II, is a day meant for reflection, celebration, and remembrance of the sacrifices made for freedom. However, the question remains: should this day be a mandatory holiday for all workers?
Currently, Bevrijdingsdag is not a mandatory public holiday according to the Arbeidstijdenwet (Working Hours Act). Unlike other holidays such as Eerste Kerstdag (Christmas Day) or Koningsdag (King's Day), Bevrijdingsdag is recognized as a national holiday only once every five years. The last occurrence was in 2020, with the next one set for 2025. This means that many workers are left in the lurch, unable to partake in the festivities while others enjoy the day off.
Minister of Social Affairs and Employment, Eddy van Hijum, has called on employers to refrain from forcing their staff to work on this significant day. "I urge employers not to require their employees to work on May 5," he stated. His appeal comes amid a growing consensus among a majority in the House of Representatives that Bevrijdingsdag should be recognized as a permanent public holiday.
NSC-Kamerlid Diederik Boomsma is one of the prominent voices advocating for this change, emphasizing that Bevrijdingsdag should be a fixed day off for everyone. He argues that freedom is a universal concern, saying, "Freedom concerns us all. We all have a stake in it." Historian Gerben Post echoes this sentiment, suggesting that the country could sacrifice Tweede Pinksterdag (Second Pentecost) in favor of Bevrijdingsdag, as he believes it holds greater significance for all Dutch citizens.
However, opinions on this matter are divided. Yoeri Albrecht, director of the debate center De Balie, believes that the Netherlands already has sufficient public holidays in the spring. He argues that adding more days off could be impractical, stating, "We already have a patchwork of holidays; adding more seems unfeasible." This sentiment reflects a broader concern among employers who fear the financial implications of mandating an additional day off. An extra holiday could cost employers approximately 0.4 percent of their wage margin, which many businesses are reluctant to absorb.
Despite these concerns, the number of Dutch workers who are off on Bevrijdingsdag is gradually increasing. In 2022, 27 percent of the population had the day off, and that number rose to 34 percent in 2024. This trend indicates a shifting attitude towards the holiday, with more employers recognizing its importance.
The upcoming Bevrijdingsdag will not only be a day for reflection but also a celebration of the theme "80 years of freedom" in 2025. The day will feature various events and festivals across the country, including 14 Bevrijdingsfestivals in cities such as Amsterdam, Den Bosch, and Rotterdam. The Ambassadors of Freedom for 2025, including artists Antoon, RONDÉ, S10, and Zoë Tauran, will perform at these festivals, helping to raise awareness about the significance of freedom in contemporary society.
Additionally, the Bevrijdingsvuur (Liberation Fire) will be lit in Wageningen on the night of May 4, symbolizing national unity and freedom. This ceremonial act marks the transition from remembrance on May 4 to celebration on May 5, with the fire being spread to over 80 municipalities across the Netherlands.
While many are eager to embrace the spirit of Bevrijdingsdag, the reality remains that not everyone will have the day off. The decision often depends on individual collective labor agreements (cao), which can vary widely between sectors. For instance, workers in education may enjoy the day off, while those in the hospitality, healthcare, or retail sectors are likely to be required to work.
As the cabinet continues to advocate for increased time off on Bevrijdingsdag, it is essential for employees to check their collective agreements or consult their employers to understand their specific situation. The push for Bevrijdingsdag to become a fixed public holiday reflects a broader desire for inclusivity and recognition of the holiday's significance in Dutch society.
In conclusion, as the Netherlands gears up for Bevrijdingsdag 2025, the conversation surrounding its status as a public holiday continues to evolve. With increasing public support for a permanent day off, the hope is that more individuals will be able to participate in the celebrations and reflect on the importance of freedom for all.
