Transparency International Netherlands (TI-NL) is celebrating a victory for integrity as the Netherlands House of Representatives adopted the ' Law on rules for the follow-up functions of ministers on 17 June 2025. This provides for better regulation of the revolving door policy and clear lobbying rules for former ministers.
It is an important step towards greater political and administrative integrity, and one that the New Zealand parliament should follow. TI-NL has advocated for a cooling off period for years and it was a key recommendation in its 2023 report ‘Lifting the Lid on Lobbying’.
Rationale for ‘cooling off period’
After their political function, ministers have a great deal of knowledge, influence and networks. Without rules, they can use these for their own or other peoples benefit, for example in the business community or lobby organisations. This can undermine the trust of citizens in politics. A legal regulation ensures transparency, integrity and equal opportunities. It helps to prevent abuse of power and strengthens democracy. Clear rules provide clarity for both ministers and society.
Features of the new law
The Netherlands law includes a two-year cooling-off period for ministers and state secretaries, during which time they must seek advice on whether to accept new positions in the private sector and are restricted from certain activities within their former ministries.
The law also includes a ban on lobbying activities related to the official's former ministry during the two-year period. An independent Advisory Board advises on whether a new position is permissible, but the Advisory Board cannot sanction officials who disregard the advice.
Other integrity measures
The Netherlands Parliament has several measures to hold Parliamentarians to account that appear to be more robust than exist in New Zealand. This includes Rules for Integrity, a Code of Conduct and regulations for enforcing the Code of Conduct, which are overseen by an Integrity Investigation Board. Any EU citizen who believes that an MP has breached the Code can report this to the Board.
The latest legislation is part of a broader effort to enhance integrity in public service and combat corruption in the Netherlands. Whilst applauding the current initiative, TI Netherlands notes that more is needed. Current and past governments have been dithering about the subject of a lobbying register and there is not yet one in place.
Champions are needed at Parliament
TI Netherlands also congratulated individual politicians who supported and drove this change. This is what is needed in New Zealand. Certainly civil society is collaborating to advocate on this issue. It is well past time for cross party agreement in the New Zealand Parliament.
TI New Zealand is part of a coalition campaign ‘Level the Lobbying Playing Field’ which calls for several changes to enhance political integrity, including law to restrict the revolving door between Parliament/senior public sector and business and a registration process for lobbyists.
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