Call to new Dutch Parliament: save student life

Politics is preventing students from fully enjoying their time at university, writes LKvV president Jochem Hilckmann in a press release (in Dutch). According to him, students feel that they have to graduate quickly. ‘There is an enormous burden on their mental health and personal development.’

The LKvV sees this reflected in its 49 member associations. They have around 8,100 members registered this year. Last year, the number was 8,330, and in 2023 it was 8,500.

Rising student debt

According to the LKvV, the housing shortage is hitting students hard. Their deteriorating financial situation and rising student debt are also causing fewer and fewer students to opt for a year on the board, voluntary internships or membership of sports, study or student associations.

The LKvV is therefore calling on the new Dutch Parliament and the outgoing cabinet “to tackle the huge housing shortage, reduce financial pressure and create space for a fulfilling student life”.

Delft associations: behind the appeal

In Delft, the Delftsch Studenten Corps, K.S.V. Sanctus Virgilius (Virgiel), the Delftsche Studenten Bond (DSB), D.S.V. Sint Jansbrug and C.S.R. Delft are affiliated with the LKvV. Two of them responded to the question of what trend they are seeing.

Virgiel reports that it has 332 new members this year, a similar number to 2024. No drawing of lots was necessary. Secretary Julia Kösters sees only one difference this year: the male/female ratio. ‘Last year, we had a significantly higher percentage of men than women joining Virgiel. This year, the ratio is the same as in Delft, which is better for the association.’

CSR does have fewer new members: 46 compared to 57 in 2024. However, president Stijn van den Dool does not see a trend in recent years. ‘Sometimes the annual numbers are a bit higher, usually a bit lower. We are now experiencing a slight decline, but only time will tell whether this will continue.’ Nevertheless, according to Van den Dool, CSR fully supports the LKvV’s appeal.

Do not wait for formation

The LKvV is not the only student organisation concerned about the pressure students are under. The National Student Union (LSVb), the Housing Association (Woonbond) and the FNV Young & United trade union are also concerned.

On 17 October, they demonstrated against the housing shortage. They suggested several ideas to tackle it, such as addressing vacancy rates and putting the social rental sector in order. Like the LKvV, they had pinned their hopes on the new Parliament. According to LSVb chair Maaike Krom, it should not wait until after the formation of a new government. ‘We don’t have that kind of time anymore. Everyone wants a place to live; you don’t need a government coalition for that.’

HOP, Hein Cuppen/Delta, Saskia Bonger