Netherlands: Ex-Dutch PM Dries van Agt, Wife Die ‘Hand in Hand’ by Euthanasia

Former Dutch Prime Minister Dries van Agt, who served as the leader of the Netherlands from 1977 to 1982, has passed away at the age of 93, having chosen euthanasia alongside his wife Eugenie van Agt-Krekelberg.

The announcement of their deaths was made by The Rights Forum, an organization Van Agt established, indicating that the couple died together on Monday and will be laid to rest in a private ceremony in Nijmegen, as per ABC News

Former Dutch PM Dries van Agt Dies with Wife

NETHERLANDS-VAN AGT GRETTA DUISENBERG — (Photo : OLAF KRAAK-/ANP/AFP via Getty Images)
Former Dutch Christian Democrat prime minister Dries van Agt (L) listens to Gretta Duisenberg, wife of the President of the European Central Bank Wim Duisenberg, during a press conference in The Hague, 23 September 2002. Mrs. Duisenberg, who earlier caused consternation by hoisting a Palestinian flag on the balcony of the home of the Duisenbergs in Amsterdam, leads a committee calling on the Dutch government to plea for the Israeli army to withdraw from the occupied areas. Members of the committee are, among others, Dries van Agt and the leaders of the Dutch opposition parties. AFP PHOTO EPA-ANP/OLAF KRAAK

Describing the closeness of their relationship, The Rights Forum stated, "He died hand in hand with his beloved wife Eugenie van Agt-Krekelberg, the support and anchor with whom he was together for more than 70 years and whom he always continued to refer to as 'my girl.'"

Van Agt's situation has been precarious for some time, particularly since he had a cerebral hemorrhage in 2019 while giving a eulogy at a memorial service for the Palestinian people. His health took a serious turn after this tragedy, from which he never completely recovered.

Initially a member of the Christian Democrat Party, Van Agt's political views evolved over time, leading to his departure from the party in 2017 due to ideological disagreements, particularly concerning Israel and Palestine.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte paid tribute to Van Agt, highlighting his distinctive language, unwavering convictions, and impactful presence in Dutch politics during times of polarization and renewal.

The Dutch royal family also offered their condolences, acknowledging Van Agt's role in steering the nation through turbulent times and commending his charismatic style, according to Fox News.

Beyond Politics to Passionate Advocacy

Known for his elaborate language and fondness for cycling, Van Agt's interests extended beyond politics. However, a fall in 2019 forced him to abandon his cycling hobby.

Van Agt led the Netherlands as prime minister alongside the right-wing Liberal Party from 1977 to 1981, before returning to power in a coalition government with the Labor Party and the centrist Democrats 66 for a year following subsequent elections.

Following a 1999 visit to Israel, his view on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict significantly changed, leading him to become an outspoken supporter of Palestinian rights. He founded The Rights Forum in 2009 as a result of this encounter; the organization's goal is to promote just and long-lasting Dutch and European policy toward Israel and Palestine.

Van Agt leaves behind a legacy of political evolution, passionate advocacy, and unwavering commitment to human rights. He is survived by his three children, The Washington Post reported.