Former leader of the Socialist Party, Lilian Marijnissen, has taken on a new role with significant social impact, joining the supervisory board of Stichting (Gelijk)waardig Herstel (SGH). This organization was initiated by Princess Laurentien to assist parents who fell victim to the extensive benefits scandal in the Netherlands, commonly referred to as the toeslagenaffaire.
This development was announced earlier this week, with Marijnissen officially joining the board under the leadership of Gert-Jan Segers, the former leader of the Christian Union. The SGH is positioned to play a larger role in the recovery operations for victims, especially following recommendations made recently by the Van Dam committee to the government.
Marijnissen’s extensive background and commitment to social justice align with SGH’s mission. She expressed, "Joining SGH felt like a natural step" when approached by Segers, highlighting her longstanding dedication to social fairness and advocacy for those marginalized by systems of power. She emphasized the paradoxical situation: "The benefits scandal has been recognized, but the repercussions continue for many affected parents and children, and that's a scandal within itself.”
Segers expressed strong support for Marijnissen’s appointment, stating she brings "an intrinsic motivation to advocate for the rights of people struggling with bureaucratic challenges." The SGH has been focusing on providing support to about 2,500 parents to date, but with the new recommendations, they may need to scale up their operations significantly.
Marijnissen, who only recently returned from maternity leave, acknowledged the challenges involved, saying, "We are set to expand significantly because of the recent recommendations. Although Segers’ invitation came shortly after my leave, I am eager to get involved, particularly at such a pivotal time for SGH." She noted the urgent need for increased support, referring to the Van Dam committee's findings as "very intense and shocking,” especially the realization of how many parents have yet to receive adequate help.
The foundation has faced significant scrutiny, especially after reports of misconduct involving Princess Laurentien, which prompted her departure from the SGH last year. This has not deterred the organization's mission, and they have received government approval to continue their work.
Marijnissen’s recent commitment highlights the pressing societal issue of the toeslagenaffaire, which has had long-lasting effects on countless families. She stated, "The recovery process is slow and mired with challenges, but we must do everything possible to alleviate the struggles of those affected." Marijnissen's connection to victims spans back to when she was still serving as a member of parliament, illustrating her engagement with the community.
Currently, SGH is seen as effective under its unique operating methods, which reportedly yield greater compensation than traditional bureaucratic pathways. The acknowledgment by the Van Dam committee serves as validation for their approach, reinforcing Marijnissen's motivation to expand their services. “The trust directed toward victims must cease,” she stressed, advocating for enhanced public recognition of their plight.
With many families expressing hesitancy over seeking compensation or assistance due to the complex bureaucratic systems, Marijnissen's involvement may help rejuvenate confidence among these victims, bringing renewed attention and advocacy to their struggles.
Further directives from the government concerning funding solutions will be significant as SGH prepares for larger operational demands. The foundation is equipped with numerous volunteers ready to step up as 'listening writers'—individuals who record the stories of parents to guide appropriate reparations.
Although challenges loom on the horizon, Marijnissen’s heartfelt commitment aims to bridge the gap of support for several thousand parents until the issue is resolved. "The government must uphold promises made for generous compensations to victims—the majority of finances consumed cover organizational costs, not the reparations themselves," she concluded.
Marijnissen's new position not only symbolizes hope for those still grappling with the aftermath of the scandal but also emphasizes the importance of holding systems accountable. Her involvement is likely to lead to stronger advocacy and, ideally, faster resolution of claims for those affected by the toeslagen scandal.