Parliamentary inquiry aims to draw lessons, not judge
In the media image: Alireza Parpaei on Unsplash
A parliamentary inquiry is examining the Dutch government’s handling of the Covid-19 pandemic. All key figures will be heard over a nine-week period. Wim Voermans, Professor of Constitutional Law, explains how a parliamentary inquiry operates in ‘EenVandaag’.
This investigative method has a long tradition in the Netherlands. According to Voermans, the purpose of a parliamentary inquiry is often misunderstood by the Dutch. ‘These public hearings are not tribunals or criminal proceedings, they are a means to investigate a certain matter,’ he explains.
The committee carrying out the inquiry consists of five members chosen from the House of Representatives (Tweede Kamer) and ensuring a balanced representation of the various political parties. The main purpose of all interrogations is to draw lessons from the past and to reflect on the decisions and action taken during the Covid-19 crisis. The public hearings are preceded by a preparatory phase which can last on average one to three years. During that time, extensive research is carried out and information is gathered. In addition, the committee has far-reaching powers, such as requesting documents and hearing witnesses under oath.
Voermans describes the inquiry as a ‘powerful tool’ and calls a parliamentary inquiry the most far‑reaching investigative tool available to parliament. He emphasises that ‘since it is such a powerful and costly measure, parliament only resorts to an inquiry when there is no other way to obtain the information needed.’
According to the constitutional law expert, a parliamentary inquiry can only be deemed a success when ‘something is discovered that you didn’t know before, or when insights are gained that you can draw lessons from.’ The committee is therefore particularly interested in finding out how the Netherlands can better prepare for a future crisis. ‘It’s not a question of whether there will be another health crisis, but when,’ Voermans adds.