Speech by Vincent van Neerbos on May 4, 2025

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Dear residents of West Maas en Waal,

Today we are gathered here to commemorate. We commemorate civilians and service members—who have lost their lives in the Kingdom of the Netherlands or anywhere else in the world since the outbreak of World War II, in combat situations and during peacekeeping operations.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands. Eighty years of freedom, of recovery, and eighty years of cherishing what was regained back then: our rights, our values, our humanity.

On this May 4th, we remember those who gave their lives—not only on the front lines, but also in concentration camps, in the resistance, and in the families who lost their loved ones. They gave everything for our freedom, for the future we enjoy today.

Eighty years ago, we were in a dark period of war and oppression. It was a time when freedom could not be taken for granted, when people were persecuted because of their ethnicity, their religion, or their beliefs. But thanks to the courage of many heroes—soldiers, resistance fighters, and ordinary citizens who risked their lives—this occupation came to an end.

It was a liberation that not only returned the country to its people, but also brought hope. Hope for the future. Hope that freedom would be stronger than hatred, that justice would be stronger than oppression. And 80 years later, that hope is still alive.

Freedom that sometimes seems to go without saying, but that we must continue to protect with care and determination. Because freedom is fragile. It is a precious commodity that is not simply guaranteed. It is a responsibility we all share.

At a time when we are facing new challenges—from political polarization to global conflicts—we must not forget that freedom is a verb. Freedom requires our active engagement. It calls on us to stand up for others, to work together for peace, and to fight against injustice wherever we encounter it.

Let us ensure that the freedom we enjoy today is the same freedom we will pass on to future generations tomorrow. Let us observe a moment of silence to remember the victims, to honor them, and to pledge that we will always cherish their courage and sacrifices.

Thank you.

Vincent van Neerbos, Mayor of