The end of the Dutch polder model? A study how the Dutch agricultural agreement and consensus politics failed to green agricultural policy
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2024-07-21
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en
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This study investigates the failure of the agricultural agreement, a policy initiative intended to promote sustainable agricultural practices in the Netherlands by fostering consensus among key stakeholders. Utilizing the Multiple Streams Framework, the research examines the interplay between problem perception, policy, and political interests. It focuses on the roles of various actors, including farmer organizations, the Ministry of Agriculture, environmental groups, and agribusinesses, highlighting their conflicting interests. Through a literature review and 14 interviews with involved organizations, the study reveals that the agreement encountered significant challenges from the outset, largely due to deep-rooted mistrust and a history of inefficient agricultural policies. Years of policy prioritizing efficiency under the influence of powerful agricultural lobbies created a path dependency, hindering meaningful transitions. Although key political moments, such as the nitrogen ruling (PAS) in 2019 and the 2021 general election, provided opportunities for change, these were often missed due to political resistance and limited institutional capacity. The presence of Johan Remkes as a policy entrepreneur helped facilitate an agreement, but the fragmented policy landscape ultimately led to its failure. The study concludes that future policies require a clear vision and must address power dynamics to enhance collaboration and achieve sustainable agricultural practices.
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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen