Dutch emancipation minister warns of rising acceptance of spousal violence
Justice Secretary Judith Tielen said a recent university study shows growing tolerance for men beating their wives, highlighting the need for stronger action against gender-based violence.
A study conducted by the universities of Amsterdam and Tilburg revealed that a significant portion of the Dutch public still believes a man may be justified in hitting his wife. Justice Secretary Judith Tielen described the finding as alarming and said it demonstrates the persistence of attitudes that fuel gender-based violence. She warned that such beliefs are reinforced by strong opposition from international conservative currents, including the manosphere.
The Dutch government is working with societal partners to combat violence against women and has launched a probe into the spread of anti-gender narratives linked to extremist groups. Since 14 September, Judith Kuypers has served as the national coordinator for violence against women and domestic abuse. Recent reports also show a decline in the Netherlands' global emancipation ranking and a drop in positive attitudes toward homosexuality among secondary-school boys.
