By Mayke van Keep

The presentation of Remkes' long-awaited report the day before yesterday was positively received. A few critical comments, but actually quite positive overall. Striking because there is not really much new in his report. Or as Jesse Klaver also said: there is nothing in Remkes' report that changes policy.

What caused the positive reception of the report? The fact that Remkes listened carefully to all parties and took their vision into account is probably an important aspect of this. Everyone feels heard. In line with this, he also emphatically indicates that the cabinet must enter into dialogue with farmers and all other parties involved and cannot simply throw policy over the fence.

This is actually the basis of dealing with issues. Only when you listen to all relevant stakeholders and involve them in the solutions you develop and present, you can develop support and actually realize changes. You must also pay attention to other issues that may influence the solutions or policy that you present. Remkes does this by also mentioning the gap between city and countryside and the trust gap between government and society. Precisely when these issues are not identified as relevant, you give room for opponents to do so. The last few months have made it clear that nitrogen policy has become the basis for ventilating the dissatisfaction surrounding government policy and the differences between city and countryside.