BBB does not want a coalition agreement, but a directing agreement.
The Boer Citizen Movement (BBB), the political party led by Caroline van der Plas, has a unique approach for the future of the Netherlands. The party strives for a 'Noaberstaat', a term that focuses on a government as an involved neighbor, but that also respects personal space. The election program offers a detailed insight into how BBB wants to tackle mobility in the Netherlands.
For the BBB, it is not just about fast train connections to major cities; it is also crucial that there are good connections with border regions such as Germany and Belgium. The party emphasizes that mobility in rural areas is different from urban areas. That is why the party wants to encourage small-scale public transport and other local initiatives. This includes on-call transportation and community buses organized by volunteers.
According to the BBB, digital platforms can help make physical mobility more sustainable. The party wants to invest in technological innovation that encourages the use of shared cars and shared bicycles and transforms (bus) stations into multimodal hubs.
sustainability
The party is skeptical about the feasibility and affordability of Zero Emission (ZE) zones and is calling for a postponement. In addition, they want to use the 'Multi-year Spatial Infrastructure and Transport Program' (MIRT) budget for international train and bus connections as an alternative to short flights. Regarding speed limits on roads, BBB believes that the impact on nitrogen reduction is minimal and therefore advocates a reintroduction of the maximum speed of 130 km/h where possible. The party sees an important role for the aviation sector in innovation and sustainability.
BBB recognizes the potential of 'the Lely Line' to improve access to the northern regions. They also argue for thorough research into the social impact before building decisions are made. Lelystad Airport remains closed to commercial air traffic, but the infrastructure will be given a new purpose. As far as BBB is concerned, the north branch of the Betuwe Route will not be built.
In a nutshell, BBB's approach to mobility is multi-faceted and focused on both urban and rural areas, with an emphasis on small-scale solutions, technological innovation and sustainability. It is a vision that responds to the needs of the region, but also takes into account national and international connections.
Noaberstaat
A Noaberstaat (sometimes also described as “naoberschap” or “noaberschap”) is a term mainly used in the eastern parts of the Netherlands, such as Twente, the Achterhoek, and parts of Drenthe and Overijssel. The concept refers to a kind of neighborly relationship or community bond that goes beyond simply living next to each other. In a Noaber state, neighbors help each other in various ways, such as maintaining the house, sharing goods, and supporting each other in times of illness or other adversity.
The idea of neighborliness is deeply rooted in local culture and is seen as an important part of community life. It is based on reciprocity; Help that is given is also expected in return when necessary. This promotes strong social cohesion and mutual trust within the community.
The concept is not unique to the Netherlands and occurs in different forms and under different names in other countries and cultures. It illustrates a form of social solidarity and community spirit that is important in many rural areas.
Group chairman Caroline van der Plas
Caroline van der Plas
Since March 2021, Caroline van der Plas has represented the BoerBurgerBeweging (BBB) as a Member of Parliament and group leader. Hailing from Deventer, she has experience in both agriculture and journalism, writing articles for agricultural magazines. She is also one of the co-founders of the political party BBB.
