Dutch gambling minister resigns, leaving industry reforms in doubt

Dutch State Secretary for Legal Protection Teun Struycken has resigned, joining several colleagues after the cabinet blocked sanctions against Israel. His position includes responsibility for gambling matters at the government level.

The wave of resignations began when Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp stepped down, citing frustration that his proposals for further action against Israel were obstructed by other ministers, Dutch broadcaster NOS reported. All ministers and state secretaries from the Nieuw Sociaal Contract (NSC) party, including Struycken, soon followed.

Veldkamp said the measures he pushed for were in response to Israel’s latest military offensive in Gaza City and the approval of new settlement plans in the West Bank. "I’ve felt resistance within the cabinet for more measures in connection with what is happening in Gaza City and the West Bank," he said. “I have insufficient confidence that things will change in the coming weeks and months if I am so limited in my ability to implement the policy I deem necessary."

Struycken’s departure raises uncertainty around gambling reform in the Netherlands. Earlier this year, he indicated a new gambling bill could be tabled by year’s end, potentially including stricter measures such as raising the age limit for high-risk products like online slots.

With Struycken stepping down, the status of that bill is unclear. The NSC had previously signaled a tougher stance on online gambling, even proposing its abolition in the party’s manifesto.

The resignations deepen instability in Dutch politics. The government had already collapsed on 3 June when Geert Wilders, leader of the far-right Party for Freedom (PVV), withdrew from a four-party coalition. A snap election is scheduled for 29 October.