Every morning, the news opens with reports from the Netherlands, Europe and the rest of the world that are so absurd that even the best screenwriter could not have come up with them. Trump’s plans to annex parts of other countries, the German elections in which the cordon sanitaire around the AfD is suddenly broken, or the umpteenth quarrel between Wilders and NSC or VVD—the news evokes surprise, indignation, fear, enthusiasm or even humor, but it is anything but boring.

This avalanche of developments affects us all: entrepreneurs, employees, researchers, young people—no one is left untouched. Polarization is increasing, and with it, trust in democracy is crumbling. But democracy cannot function without trust. It is the foundation on which our system rests: the belief that democracy works, that politicians represent all citizens and that minorities are not excluded. Our democratic constitutional state is there for everyone. But as soon as that trust falters, democracy itself falters.

Yet we have shown for decades that we are capable of building a strong democracy. The Netherlands is a country in which citizens, government, politics, NGOs and companies have taken responsibility together. That balance must not be lost now due to mistrust and polarization. This is the moment to speak out, to actively choose trust, cooperation and the power of democracy. Because if we allow trust to break down, we will slowly hand over democracy.

There is still plenty of reason for optimism. There are politicians who take responsibility, civil servants who are open to new initiatives, companies that take their social role seriously, NGOs that continue to fight for social goals, and journalists who report independently and with nuance. We all have the opportunity and the duty to contribute. By working together and seeking connections, we can not only maintain confidence in our democracy, but even strengthen it.

By means of Sybrig van Keep