VVD launches helpdesk for expats

VVD MP Joost Taverne has launched a helpdesk for expats intended to assist them in casting their ballots in the September general election.
An estimated half million enfranchised Dutch citizens are living abroad. In the previous general election, in 2010, about 45,000 expats registered to vote, but only about 35,000 actually cast their ballots, reportedly due to red tape. “A blemish on our modern democracy”, according to Taverne.
And all this while The Hague is taking a clear interest in expats, as evidenced by the Rutte cabinet’s intention to ban double nationality for Dutch citizens which sparked outrage among expats.
Joost Taverne blames ‘unnecessary red tape’ for the disappointing turnout among expats. In 2010 Radio Netherlands compiled a black book listing the hurdles facing Dutch voters abroad who want to cast their ballots. Dutch expats have to request a registration form by post, which must be returned in time, again by post. Their ballots also have to sent in by post, but are only valid when marked with a red pencil.
The system has been slightly modernised. The registration form can now be downloaded, but still has to be sent in by post. Ballots also still have to be sent in by post or handed in at the embassy. Joost Taverne wants to digitalise the entire process.
The website of the Election Bureau in The Hague also offers information to Dutch voters abroad, but the VVD MP says his helpdesk is intended “as an additional service.”
(gsh)

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