Invincible Holland

Press Reports—12 April–11 July 2006

Summary of the Positive Trends Reported by the Press

12 April to 11 July 2006

Introduction

On 12 April 2006, four hundred experts in Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Programme Including Yogic Flying, assembled at Maharishi European Research University (MERU), Holland, to participate in a World Peace Assembly to Create Invincible Holland. This book presents a summary of positive trends reported by the press in Holland during the first ninety-one days of this historic assembly.

Four hundred is the square root of one per cent of the total sixteen million population of Holland. The square root of one per cent of a population practising Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TMSidhi Programme promotes positive trends in the whole society, and is the formula for any country to achieve harmony, invincibility, and a better quality of life for its people. This phenomenon was called by scientists the Maharishi Effect, in honour of Maharishi who first predicted it in the very early days of his worldwide Movement to spiritually regenerate the world (started in Madras, India, in 1957).

EEG Research Locates the Seat of the Maharishi Effect in the Coherently Functioning Brain Physiology of the Individual. During the practice of the TM-Sidhi for Yogic Flying, the individual experiences waves of bliss, profound peace, and high brainwave coherence. This generates an influence of positivity and harmony in the environment.

The Maharishi Effect, like the phenomenon of the Meissner Effect in Physics, establishes the principle that individual consciousness affects collective consciousness. A universal principle in Nature is that internally coherent systems possess the ability to repel negative external influences, while incoherent systems are easily penetrated by disorder from outside. This principle of invincibility is clearly illustrated in the Meissner Effect, and in the functioning of a nation as the Maharishi Effect.

Meissner Effect — An Example of Invincibility in the Quantum Physics of Superconductivity

This example of invincibility is not unique in Nature; parallel phenomena of invincibility can be found in many aspects of the physical and biological sciences. In each case, it is found that the ability of the system to resist disorder is always based on coherent collective functioning.

Maharishi Effect — Creating an Invincible Armour for the Nation

NATIONAL ARMOUR — An invincible border that makes the nation impenetrable to any harmful influence from the outside. The Maharishi Effect refers to the growth of harmony in society resulting from the practice of Maharishi’s Vedic Technology—the technology of Natural Law—by a small fraction of the population. Whenthe influence of coherence generated by this technology reaches sufficient intensity, an integrated national consciousness is created. This in turn strengthens the cultural integrity of the nation by promoting life in accord with Natural Law. The result is the development of self-sufficiency and an invincible armour for the nation, which automatically repels any negative influence coming from outside. Thus, the integrated state of national consciousness created by the Maharishi Effect produces a ‘Meissner Effect’ for the nation, rendering it impenetrable to external disorder.

SUPERCONDUCTOR — In a superconductor, coherent collective functioning of the electrons spontaneously excludes an external magnetic field, and maintains its impenetrable status.
ORDINARY CONDUCTOR — In an ordinary electrical conductor, incoherent, disordered electrons allow penetration by an external magnetic field.

The secret of the Maharishi Effect is the phenomenon known to Physics as the ‘Field Effect’, the effect of coherence and positivity produced from the level of the Unified Field of all the Laws of Nature—the field of Transcendental Consciousness, which permeates all life everywhere. Therefore action on the level of the Unified Field can have a profound influence that can spread throughout society.

Approximately fifty studies on the Maharishi Effect have been conducted to date throughout the world, which indicate that Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Programme is the key to ushering in a new world order of affluence and peace for every nation. ‘These are the days of a new civilization on earth. Doesn’t matter what the past has been. We will design a new sunshine.’ — His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi
For further information, visit: www.invincibledefence.org/research/research.html and http://maharishi-programmes.globalgoodnews.com/maharishi-effect/index.html
Note: ‘The Netherlands’ and ‘Holland’ are used interchangeably in this document.

INVINCIBLE HOLLAND

Summary of the Positive Trends Reported by the Press

12 April to 11 July 2006

Reported by Dr Paul Gelderloos, Prime Minister of the Global Country of World Peace, Holland

A review of the reports by the press during the beginning days of the World Peace Assembly taking place at Maharishi European Research University (MERU), Holland, shows a shift towards improved governmental administration, more interest in healthy food through organic agriculture, more life-supporting economic policies, more interest in Dutch national culture, greater government concern for the future welfare of all citizens of the country, and economic growth.

Highlights of press reports for the first 10 days of the World Peace Assembly to Create an Invincible Holland, 12–21 April 2006

Economic growth depends on investor climate, consumer confidence, and other aspects of a nation’s collective consciousness. Many studies in past years have shown that the large group practice of Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Programme, by reducing stress in the collective consciousness, improves economic performance.
- Economically, Holland has been doing well for some months, but recently there has been an unexpected report of improvement in unemployment: 14 per cent more jobs have been created in the last
few weeks. Suddenly, countries around this nation are writing that Holland is a rising economic star of the European Union.
- Due to a continuing economic surplus, the government has just made the wise decision to give one billion Euros back to its people to further stimulate the economy. On the 10th day of the Invincible Holland Course, the Dutch Prime Minister, Jan Peter Balkenende, said the economy is rising due to current government policies and to the cooperation of the labour unions. The economic climate is much more positive than a year ago. The government may take credit for the change, but we know it is all coming from a change in the collective consciousness, the rising coherence of the nation from the increased number of experts in Yogic Flying at Maharishi European Research University (MERU) Holland.

On the 11th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 22 April 2006
- The national airport found a solution to a long-standing conflict between environmental and economic interests. The airport will now have planes float while landing inside the airport instead of flying, so the airport can reduce pollution enough to greatly expand the number of flights each year.

On the 12th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 23 April 2006
- The press reported that the government took several measures today to minimize bureaucracy, to allow more money to stay with the people, by decreasing the difference between gross and net income, such as:
- Lower premiums (120 Euros/year) for unemployment insurance;
- Government subsidy for day-care of children will increase by 10 per cent;
- Child and family allowance will increase by 30 Euros per child.
- Also, companies will benefit by the following measures:
- Tax on profit for small and medium size companies will make a significant drop from 27 per cent to 20 per cent;
- Corporate tax for large companies will also decrease in a few steps.
- The National Bank decided to protect bank account holders, in the event that a bank becomes insolvent, for up to 40,000 Euros per account, twice as much as before.
- A new bank started in Holland which, exceptionally, will pay interest of 3 per cent on a regular bank account. Existing banks do not pay interest on such accounts.
- The Dutch press has recently been reporting more interest in physical fitness, wellness, spas, saunas, and Yoga.

On the 13th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 24 April 2006
- A party leader during an election has proposed that employers should be able to give an extra bonus to employees as a token of appreciation, without their being taxed for it.
- To the delight of the Dutch people, the Commission for Equal Treatment has just relaxed a rigid labour policy and now allows extra holidays for its senior employees.
- A new mortgage company was founded which provides mortgages specifically for people with a bad credit rating. This should lead to thousands more people being able to purchase a home.
- Parliament has said it wants to ensure that the study of the Dutch language is maintained as an essential class for all students.
- The press reported that the economic sector was taking an interest in the science of Astrology, applying its principles of prediction to buying and selling on the stock market. A study was published that showed investors buy more on the new moon and sell more on the full moon.
- In Limburg province, the home of Maharishi European Research University (MERU), the production
industry had announced that about 1,500 people would lose their jobs. This seemed to be an unsolvable problem, but since the Invincible Holland Course has started, the dismissal of the people has been postponed for one year, and new plans are being implemented to increase profits, so that the dismissals can be permanently averted.
- Today the press reported that 70 per cent of the people have expressed support for the ruling monarch, Queen Beatrix of The Netherlands. The nation feels the Queen has provided a protective, stable influence in the life of the people.

On the 14th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 25 April 2006
- Because there is a growing number of wealthy people in Holland, banks are suddenly experiencing a shortage of private bankers. Recruitment activities are being enhanced.
- The government’s tax reduction plans have been unanimously very well received by tax lawyers,
employer associations, and Parliament. This is exceptional.
- The Minister of Education, Mrs Verhoeven, wants to take measures to prevent students from leaving
school early with a package of 100 million Euros. She also wants to increase the compulsory school
age from 16 years to 18 years.
- Shareholders of the Dutch ING bank, which holds one of the largest worldwide portfolios, have
requested the bank to withdraw their holdings in two large American companies with a bad record on
social and environmental responsibility.
- Better treatment methods of cancer in men, leading to a 30 per cent lower chance of recurrence was reported on today.
- To prevent obesity in children, a programme was announced today that aims to maintain good eating
habits from a young age. It consists of a programme of study and advice to teach four-year olds good
eating habits. It has been found that if children eat well at this age, the tendency to do so will stay throughout their lives.
- The press reported that 70 per cent of their readers are proud of the Dutch language and would like to see a reduction in the use of English words.
- The Dutch car navigation system TomTom reported today that they will release their new system with
two local Dutch dialects, Limburg’s and Twenth’s.

On the 15th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 26 April 2006
- Positive values for more balance in life and in the environment are spreading from Holland to other countries. Holland has laws to protect over-fishing, and nations bordering Holland have expressed the desire to work together to promote more life-supporting values in the fishing industry.
- Traffic fatalities are at their lowest point since the Second World War, even though, remarkably, there are 50 times more cars. The country also has lower emission of carbon dioxide (CO2) from cars than expected—8 per cent lower than other countries of the European Union.
- The national airport Schiphol wants to invest 200 million Euros to help people living in the vicinity of the airport who are experiencing too much noise.
- There is greater consumer confidence in April, the highest level since November 2000. Also, the expectations of the economy for the coming year are at an all-time high.
- Order portfolios at companies have not been so high since the end of 2000. This includes orders from within Holland as well as export orders.
- 12 per cent of company managers expect to have to increase their personnel, the highest percentage
since 2001.

On the 16th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 27 April 2006
- The Netherlands is again seen as an interesting country in which to establish international businesses. It is considered again to be the gateway to Europe with two main ports, Schiphol and Rotterdam, an international orientation, competitive tax climate, a well-educated and multilingual population, and an extensive infrastructure.
- A professional college in Groningen begins a separate ICT education for girls only. They find that in girls-only classes, girls have a better opportunity to express themselves and are less shy.
- The press reported that there are fewer people on welfare in April.
- The number of schools with a low rating according to the results of their students, decreased from 4 per cent to 2 per cent.
- Hospitals are becoming less clinical; now they also want to take into account the healing environment of the patient.

On the 17th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 28 April 2006
- Government allots an extra 100 million Euros to youth health care and 25 million Euros for care of
youth with mental problems.
- The Ministry of Social Affairs wants to lower social security premiums for people who have their own company.
- People are showing higher confidence in labour markets and are becoming more successful in finding
jobs.
- The number of school drop-outs becomes dramatically lower.
- Entrepreneurs and employers who have a good balance between their corporate and private life are more successful in their job, the press reported today. If one works less that 45 hours per week, one is more effective and efficient.
- The church owl was almost extinct in Holland. This season 3,500 nests have been found.
- Quite unexpectedly, birds and poultry in Holland were saved from the Asian Bird Flu. All other European countries, save Belgium and Luxembourg, had this epidemic. Birds are allowed out in the open again, now that the seasonal migration of wild birds is over.

On the 18th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 29 April 2006
- The day before Queen’s Day, 3,500 royal decorations were given, more than ever under the new regime.
These decorations, Knight in the Order of Oranje Nassau, are given in recognition of outstanding contributions to society. This year also many more women, one out of three, were decorated.
- Less carbon dioxide is being emitted in Holland, and also the Czech Republic and France reported 10
per cent less emission than they had a right to. Because of these reports the rather speculative price for emission rights was halved.
- Many companies report better sales and earnings, but Spyker cars—a vintage classic Dutch model,
recently re-enlivened as a luxurious top-of-the-line car—doubled their production.

On the 19th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 30 April 2006
- Every day we see more and more good news from different areas of society. The government has just
expressed a desire to see more organic food available and proposed to subsidize a research project to determine whether the higher cost of organic food restrains the market share from growing further.
- For years a large railway freight connection has been under construction between Rotterdam and Germany. Year after year the budget was surpassed. But now the Minister of Transport is only reporting
windfall after windfall. Today she reported savings of 11 million Euros.
- Arcadis, a large Dutch Engineering firm, investigates and advises the New Orleans city government on the building of flood barriers.
- Parliament announced it will donate an extra 10 million Euros to Sudan to help that country out of
its struggle. It will also be donating 22 million Euros in relief aid for the drought in East Africa. The Netherlands is becoming a Global Country of World Peace, sharing more wealth per capita than any other nation.

In conclusion, today, 30th April 2006, Dr Paul Gelderloos remarked, ‘His Highness Dr Willem Meijles, Raja of Holland, and I will make every effort to continue the Invincible Holland Course so that the good news we have been seeing continues to unfold and the country remains invincible for all time.’

On the 20th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 1 May 2006
- Social premiums will no longer be levied for people who do temporary work.
- The Netherlands is back in the fiscal top three in Europe.
- The Technical and Vocational Training School in Zwolle will enrol promising students who do not have the necessary degrees or diploma’s. This is in the context of the ‘Open Doors for Talent’ programme of the Ministry of Education.
- Regular schools are not found to be interesting. Now schools are coming up with special interest areas, such as sports, arts, and culture.
- A two million Euros subsidy is given from the Government to help people with low income with
energy savings.

On the 21st day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 2 May 2006
- The Ministry of Economic Affairs wants to make it easier for innovative foreigners to come to Holland
to start their own company. Such companies will create extra jobs.
- EU and Swiss citizens no longer need to request a stay permit for a longer stay in Holland; they only
need to register with the local community.
- An extra 25 million Euros was allotted for neighbourhoods with social problems, to create a higher quality of life and more safety.
- Dutch ornamental plant cultivation, which scored record revenues of two billion Euros in the first
months of 2006, will create 1,500 new jobs in the near future.
- A patent was filed by a Dutchman who designed a new way to package flowers, so they will stay fresh
four to five weeks longer.
- One of the largest private equity firms in Holland made a very large investment in a company that is focused on the development and employment of sustainable energy.

On the 22nd day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 3 May 2006
- The Minister of Finance, Mr Zalm, lowered the maximum allowed interest charged by mail order companies from 21 per cent to 16 per cent.
- After the Engineering Firm Arcadis, 16 other Dutch companies went to visit New Orleans to see how they could contribute to the prevention of flooding.
- More stock exchange transactions were made at the Amsterdam Stock Exchange in April, 30.7 per cent
higher than last year. The average number of transactions per day was 924,000, the highest ever.
- Active research programmes are being started to develop alternative sources of energy, such as wind, biomass, manure, salty/fresh water and streaming water.

On the 23rd day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 4 May 2006
- The Ministry of Social Affairs reserves 140 million Euros to create jobs for young school dropouts. Together with schools, apprentices are created and employers hiring these youth receive subsidies. In this way the Minister wants to create 10,000 jobs.
- The Netherlands is the largest investor in Eastern Europe.
- The city of Borsele in Zeeland will set up a project to create energy from the tides of the ocean.
- The Queen opened a cross-over for animals, called an ecoduct, of 800 metres to connect various
natural areas in the Gooi area, near Amsterdam. Investment was 14 million Euros.
- Although soot filters will only be mandatory on new diesel cars by the end of 2008, through a savings programme, about half of the Dutch buyers do already choose a soot filter with their diesel car.

On the 24th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 5 May 2006
- The Dutch government has made a definite decision to go ahead with expansion of the industrial area
near the international harbour of Rotterdam. After years of procrastination and procedures, the government will allow no further delay.
- There is unprecedented optimism and growth in the transport and steel business in Holland, so much
so that the government even expects there will be a shortage of professionals in that area.
- In general, employees report that they are much more positive about their future. Many more people
are deciding to change jobs, because they see new opportunities and are not afraid to leave their secure work environment for greater opportunity.
- Following the recent example of the national government, now local authorities have also decided
to dramatically simplify government by cutting down the local government rules and regulations.
Holland has been overregulated. The cities want to abolish 40 kinds of licenses. The national government yesterday announced they would like to decrease the 2.1 million licenses given annually to 1.2 million annually, by abolishing certain kinds of licenses and by restructuring in other cases.
- The current annual inflation rate in The Netherlands is 1.2 per cent, one of the lowest in Europe. It is expected this will decrease further.
- Insurance companies are minimizing bureaucracy and are making the processing of travel insurance
claims available via the internet.
- In April 2006, as compared to April 2005, investments by private citizens in the stock market increased by 100 per cent. Yesterday it was announced that the average number of daily transactions in April on the Amsterdam Stock Exchange was the highest ever.
- The press reported there are fewer assaults in the hotel and catering industry, the lowest in ten years.
- The traditional Dutch car, the Spyker, started a new luxury production line a few years ago. Spyker
doubled production this month and today announced that more and more of its customers are requesting custom made, individualized cars, costing up to 1.5 million Euro. Of course, this is too high for the average citizen, but clearly a sign of the booming economy in Holland.

On the 25th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 6 May 2006
- The Dutch Finance Minister, who by nature is a very conservative man, announced that he is very
optimistic about the economic growth in Holland, well beyond the 2.7 per cent that had been anticipated. He said, ‘On the basis of the positive yield of taxes and social premiums, I estimate that the economic upsurge in Holland is stronger than the already quite positive prognosis of the Central Planning Bureau.’ The Finance Minister also expects that the European Union Commission will forecast a
higher than expected growth in the coming week.
- The press reported that the Dutch are not afraid of globalization of the world. They perceive the rising development of China and India more as positive rather than as a threat. The rest of Europe, with the exception of Denmark and Sweden, see it as a danger. This shows the strong invincible position of the Dutch.
- Investor’s confidence in April is at its highest point since measurements began in April 2002.
- The turnover on the Energy Exchange (buying and selling of energy contracts) was also twice as high
as one year ago.
- The political platform of one of the largest political parties in Holland is being written now by a successful international Dutch businessman, who is CEO of a large Telecom company. His approach is expected to be much more pragmatic than that of politicians. He says he wants to create an innovative and enterprising Holland, where people enjoy life.

On the 26th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 7 May 2006
- Gas and diesel became cheaper despite rising oil prices.
- More passengers travelled with the French and Dutch airlines Air France and KLM—7.3 per cent
more in April as compared to April last year, which is the highest occupancy rate ever.
- The Dutch Army Camp, Seedorf, in Germany closed after operating for forty-three years. It was
established during the cold war. Five thousand military personnel from the camp are returning to their homes in Holland.
- A group of mothers in Volendam organized themselves collectively to win the war on drug use by their youngsters, especially the use of cocaine. They have been so successful that now mothers in many more Dutch towns have taken up their plan.
- The Dutch Cabinet has installed a group of independent individuals to make proposals, on a continuing basis, to bridge the gap and restore trust between the government and its people.
- A plasma lamp has been developed by the University of Eindhoven, which saves two to three per cent energy.
- The director of a large multinational company in Holland, who is a practitioner of Maharishi’s
Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Programme, reported the following events in his company,
which have taken place since the start of the Invincible Holland Course: ‘There is more
softness in society, more tolerance. Company problems are solved more smoothly. Everything is
easier. Teamwork is improved, and we are more successful. I am astonished about the cooperation
and positivity, and the ease with which everything happens. It is so remarkable and persistent
that it really stands out. People exhibit sides of themselves which they have never shown
before. It seems as if blockades in the brain are eliminated. This is just the beginning, but I think
that the changes yet to come will be unprecedented.’

On the 27th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 8 May 2006
- The press reported that at the closing of the last Dutch army camp in Germany, Seedorf, it was emphasized that the Dutch and German armies would start to work even more closely together.
- The Dutch Labour Party says that the Joint Fight Striker order (6 billion Euros) has become obsolete
and should be abolished.
- The press also reported that almost 100 Dutch companies are presenting themselves to the Chinese
business-world via a specialized website, and are meeting with great success.
- The Netherlands is now among the top four nations in the world using the internet.
- Dutch construction companies report they want to focus on creating a beautiful quality of life and living environment, rather than just building homes.

On the 28th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 9 May 2006
- Today it was reported that conversion towards sustainable energy would create 30,000 new jobs in
Holland.
- According to the ‘Taskforce Energy Transition’, the government will need to invest two billion
Euros annually in energy innovation, rather than the currently allotted one billion Euros. This will
lead to 50 per cent less emission of carbon dioxide by 2050. The taskforce recommends three main
approaches:
1. Creating energy savings of 1.5 to 2 per cent annually,
2. Development of sustainable energy, and
3. ‘Clean fossil’—burning of oil and gas, while collecting the damaging substances and exhaust
and subsequently storing them underground.

The taskforce suggests the following energy saving measures:
1. Intelligent traffic—use of information systems in cars to recommend the best route and the ideal
speed.
2. Energy-neutral approaches: At the end of this month the first energy-neutral horticulture glasshouse near Arnhem will be employed. Solar energy collected in the summer will be stored and
made available in the winter.
3. Flexi-fuel cars, cars driving on bio-ethanol instead of gasoline, will be 5.5 per cent of the total cars by 2010 and 40 per cent by 2030.
4. Use of ‘micro total energy power plants’ in every household or neighbourhood, whereby the heat
that is generated from energy production is also used for heating, creating hot water, etc.
- Today Royal Dutch Shell made a bid to buy the Canadian oil company Black Rock Ventures Canada,
which has a reserve of approximately 175 billion barrels of oil in tar sands. Only Saudi Arabia has
more reserves. The exploitation of this oil will bring more economic stability to the world.
- The European Union concludes that Holland is currently doing much better than many other European countries, including Germany, Belgium, and France. According to the Economics Commissioner
Almunia, Holland profits from:
1. Higher investments from industry
2. More spending by the population
3. Modest salary increases
4. Increasing employment (unemployment is decreasing towards 3.9 per cent)
- In April the monthly employment index of the career website company Monsterboard had a 12-point
increase in job opportunities—the highest ever—since measuring began over 18 months ago.
- The government has organized a system to protect people from going into unnecessary debt due to
borrowing too much money.

On the 29th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 10 May 2006
- The Ministries of Justice and Finance are making it easier to submit Annual Reports, using digital
technology. The Chamber of Commerce sees annual savings of 750 million Euros.
- The Cabinet wants to reduce administrative costs for industry by 25 per cent—from 16 billion Euros
annually to 12 billion Euros, within their government’s four-year term of office. Savings have already been 1.9 billion Euros annually. With another 70 planned-measures to take effect this and next year, another 2.1 billion Euros will be saved.
- The Customs Department was closing offices in Amsterdam harbour, due to efficiency considerations. Companies at the harbour were afraid service levels would suffer. The combined parties—the national government in Amsterdam and the shipping industry—reached an agreement yesterday to solve this issue.
- The number of requests for dismissal from companies decreased last year by 12 per cent compared to 2004. This figure is expected to decrease significantly again.
- The carpet industry, united as ‘Holland Carpet’, has re-enlivened the spirit of the United East-Indies Company. Eighty-five per cent of carpets produced in Holland are exported, and now this industry will focus on exporting to China, via trade on the internet. Holland is the second largest exporter of carpets
worldwide.
- The flower auction, Aalsmeer, is growing so quickly that they need to expand their accommodations significantly. In 2005 they traded 4 billion flowers and plants. By 2014 they expect to have grown an extra 32 per cent, and by 2025 they expect to have grown by 100 per cent.
- Stock exchange operator, Euronext, which includes the stock exchange in Amsterdam, reached a
record profit of 107.1 million Euros in the first quarter, riding on the wave of investor optimism. This is expected to increase in the second quarter.
- The Amsterdam Power Exchange, which creates significant efficiency in the energy market, is now
profitable after a period of acquisitions and reorganization. They currently trade 16 per cent of all electricity in Holland, and they are also active in Belgium and England.
- Dutch employers are more positive about hiring immigrants in Holland.
- The Dutch people have been evaluated by other European countries as the least anti-social.
- The largest Dutch offshore wind-park is being built on the North Sea, with 36 turbines of 3 megawatts each, sufficient to provide electricity for 100,000 households.
- A very good article appeared in the largest Dutch newspaper, reporting on the Peace Colony in Lelystad, northern Holland, where an entire community is dedicated to the practice of Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation. The article quotes one of teachers of Transcendental Meditation as saying: ‘There is a strong bond between the citizens here. One knows everyone. No one needs to feel lonely. There is a high level of safety and security. Living here is bliss.’ The article ends by explaining the plans to extend the number of homes in the village with 200 houses built according to the principles of Maharishi Sthåpatya Veda—the science of Vedic Architecture.

On the 30th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 11 May 2006
- An interest group for corporate energy users says companies and households pay too high a price for
the transport of energy. These progressive and environmentally beneficial findings will be taken into account by the energy regulator.
- The bank for people who wish for a better world, Triodos Bank, has been chosen as one of the top 20
Great Places to Work. Employees at the bank have one thing in common: they want to leave behind
a better society for the coming generations. Triodos Bank not only stands for short-term gain, but for sustenance of life on our planet.

On the 31st day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 12 May 2006
- A positive prognosis in the field of economy has been reported over the last few days, and has now
been confirmed by the Central Bureau of Statistics. The annual economic growth in Holland, based
on the results of the 1st quarter is expected to be a solid 2.9 per cent. The press is reporting a ‘broadly carried recovery of the Dutch economy’, which has at its basis:
1. A 2.1 per cent growth of consumer spending in the 1st quarter as compared to 1.5 per cent
growth in the previous quarter;
2. A 7.1 per cent growth of exports versus 3.5 per cent growth in the 4th quarter of 2005;
3. A 3.4 per cent investment in fixed goods in industry, versus 1.4 per cent in the previous quarter, which indicates strong confidence in industry.
- The press reported that the President of the Netherlands Central Bank, Mr Nout Wellink, has confirmed that the fundamentals of progress are very strong: Spending is higher, investments are increasing, and tax revenues have been higher than expected.
- ‘Chilly Rotterdam has to become a warm, compassionate Rotterdam’ is reported to be the motto of Rotterdam’s new city administration. They say there is no longer room to think in terms of ‘we and them’. The local government accord is called ‘Perspective for every Rotterdammer’.
- Amsterdam is becoming more attractive to tourists: Tourists are finding their way to Amsterdam again. Hotel bookings have increased by 8 per cent.
- Yesterday, it was reported that the Triodos Bank explicitly stands for sustainable growth. Today another ‘green’ bank, ASN, reported its largest growth last year of 30 per cent, with 264,000 new customers. Due to their development, the market for sustainable funds in Holland has been raised 40 per cent and is now 2.5 billion Euros.

On the 32nd day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 13 May 2006
- The Cabinet decided to use extra government savings, which occurred due to the increased economic progress, to balance the state debt, leading to a more solid national balance sheet. Also, extra income due to the use of natural gas will be used for infrastructure projects and for education and innovation. This extra income is expected to be 1.4 billion dollars.
- The Minister of Housing (VROM), Mr Dekker, is offering financial support to youngsters and people
who are buying their first house with an interest free loan on top of their mortgage, so that the monthly payments can be reduced. 40 million Euros will be deposited in the fund this year.
- A very significant decrease of job accidents is being seen.
- According to telecommunications regulator OPTA, due to ongoing competition in the telecom and
internet industry, prices continue to become significantly lower for the public.
- Dr Paul Gelderloos’ company, Scarlet, has been mentioned today as one of the large competitors and
innovators in the field of telecommunications via the internet.
- The Dutch tent rental company, Company de Boer, is experiencing enormous growth after 80 years of
being in business, with 1,500 projects worldwide this year. Presently they are designing the Olympic
Village in Peking for 2008, for the World Champion’s League, for which they have already
built 15,000 square metres. They are also building the largest tent complex ever for the Asian Olympic
Games in Qatar, for 25 million Euros. The contract in Peking will be even larger, 60 million Euros, if
they win the contract.
- A trend of more positive thinking is rising in Holland. A large group of Dutchmen find the time has now come, after years of negativism, to see the bright side of life. They say this is not only good for the mind, but also for the body. A new website dedicated to good news was opened not long ago, called www.rozebril.nu (which means rose coloured glasses), and a foundation was established recently with the name: World Peace is Possible.
- A full-page article was published on Åyur-Veda—Vedic Medicine, the oldest system of medicine in
the world, indicative of the increasing interest in preventative health care.
- A new trend in giving presents is being promoted. If you want to give a gift to people who already have everything, make a donation on their behalf to a foundation called Heifer, which offers courses for sustainable and animal friendly farming for families in Africa and poor areas of Europe, such as Romania and Albania. At the end of the training the farmers receive an animal. Depending on the project it could be a chicken, goat, cow, even bees or rabbits. This gift is, in a sense, on loan, which then needs to be passed on to others. Giving away the animal’s first female offspring to another family fulfills the loan ‘payment’. Such donations in Holland are tax-deductible, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is such a strong supporter of the concept, that they triple the donation coming in. If one decides to donate 450 Euros for one cow (including the training), the Ministry donates another three cows.

On the 33rd day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 14 May 2006
- The press reported record revenues from flower sales due to Mother’s Day. The total revenue was 73
million Euros, with 77,000 auction carts being sold. If put end-to-end, the auction carts would stretch 77 kilometres.
- Certain boards of education (HBO’s) are following the lead of Zwolle (the capital city of the province of Overijssel) in allowing students who do not have the proper diploma or grades, to take classes. Students are permitted to make up missed subjects in evening classes.
- The Minister of Traffic, Mr Peys, would like to make a definite decision on a highway between Rotterdam and The Hague, over which there has been a dispute for the last 40 years. There is progress in resolving this dispute.
- In the field of medicine, a do-it-yourself test approach for intestinal cancer is being investigated. If effective, the test could lead to 15 to 20 per cent fewer deaths from this disease.

On the 34rd day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 15 May 2006
- The press reported that Mayor Aboutaleb, the Deputy Mayor of Amsterdam, is proclaiming a new
policy with tax incentives, to make it more attractive for employers to hire less educated employees.
- It was reported today that there was a very significant increase in mergers and acquisitions in the financial world from 2004 to 2005. In Holland the total was 4.3 billion Euros in 2005 as compared
to 2.5 billion Euros in 2004. Two-thirds of these acquisitions in Holland were financed by private
equity—the highest proportion of any country. Private equity investors are known to be very savvy
investors, thus they see an enormous upside potential in the current rising Dutch market.
- The press reported that Holland has the best tap water in Europe, according to a study in 30 countries conducted on behalf of the European Union. In terms of knowledge about water and purity of its water, Holland is far ahead of other countries, because it uses additional guidelines above and beyond the European drinking-water guidelines. The guideline Holland employs is that one should be able to drink tap water one’s whole life without any side effects. In tests, those who are physically weakest—the elderly and infants—are chosen as the norm. One example of how the water differs from elsewhere is that no chloride
is used for purification. Instead, ultraviolet light is used, just as in Nature itself.
- Energy consumption is better now that competition among energy companies is increasing. In addition
to lower prices, end-users are also stimulated to have smart metering instruments installed in their
homes and offices that can guide them towards much more cost-effective energy usage.

On the 35th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 16 May 2006
- The Ministry of Economic Affairs is distributing innovation vouchers. With these vouchers, partly financed by the Ministry, companies can buy knowledge from universities and private schools. Companies are showing great interest.
- Deaths due to coronary diseases have continued to decrease over the last decade. The Central Bureau
of Statistics thinks this is due to less smoking, more healthy food, and progress in prevention and
health care—factors which are all rising steadily.
- Regional Educational Centers (ROCs) plan to work closely together with Centers for Work and Income
(CWI - Labor Bureau) to better prepare students for employment. Work and education profiles are
being developed and will be used at both institutes. Until now they have each had their own system, and students were not properly prepared for jobs in the market.
- The State Forest Care (Staatsbosbeheer) has created a kind of ‘Arc of Noah’ for 114 native Dutch trees and bushes. Presently less than five per cent of all vegetation in Holland is indigenous to Holland. Thus far they have collected 60 of these original 114 trees and bushes. These will also be used to create new seeds, which will be planted throughout Holland.
- A Dutchman has won an innovation prize from the World Bank for the invention of a tent which creates drinking-water. The 600 square metre tent makes seawater drinkable with the help of sunlight.
Salty water evaporates through heat, and comes down at the sides of the tent. Each tent collects 2,000
liters of drinking water per day. There were 2,550 applicants for innovation prizes, of which 29 were
chosen to receive a USD 190,000 prize.

On the 36th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 17 May 2006
- The growth of private schools in Holland is expected to be exponential, according to the director of the largest private school chain, Luzac. Every two years students in private schools are expected to double. The demand for small-scale, high-quality high schools comes from dissatisfaction about regular education and the improving economy. Parents are more interested in good education and are willing to spend more for it. Even private equity investors are interested to invest.
- The entire Parliament asked Immigration Minister Rita Verdonk to reconsider withdrawing the Dutch
citizen status of prominent member of Parliament, Ayaan Hirsi Ali. Parliament would like the Minister
of Immigration to be more humane in the application of rules and say rules are there to serve people. A
positive agreement was reached early this morning to allow Ayaan Hirsi Ali to keep her Dutch citizen
status.
- Princess Maxima, who is the promoter of microcredit (loans to entrepreneurs) in third-world countries, wants to launch the same concept here in Holland for underprivileged entrepreneurs. She is approaching large Dutch banks for this.
- The traffic organization 3VO has asked students to find the best ‘I am sorry’ sign to be used in traffic situations. Presently there are only signs to say: ‘I am very angry’.
- The CEO of Royal Dutch Shell, Mr Jeroen van der Veer, said at the shareholders meeting yesterday that there will be no shortage of oil and gas reserves in the foreseeable future, but the exploitation of some reserves may become somewhat more difficult. Shareholders were further satisfied with the sustainable approach the company is taking in its policies.

On the 37th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 18 May 2006
- The press reported that when the Dutch Finance Minister, Mr Zalm, presented his annual account
yesterday, he was satisfied with last year and very optimistic about this year. By the end of the 2006
there will quite likely be a budget surplus. Currently the budget deficit is approximately 0.3 per cent, whereas the nation budgeted for 2.6 per cent.
- The first few months of this year had the highest economic growth in the last five years.
- The Netherlands Bureau of Tourism and Congresses expects that in 2006 there will be a new record of
10.4 million visitors to Holland.
- The Minister of Traffic, Mr Peijs, would like to experiment with free or almost-free public transportation on roads that have heavy traffic jams daily.
- The press reported that reforms in the Dutch health-care system are an inspiration to Germany, especially the fact that there is now competition among health insurance companies. Discussion over
health insurance reforms in Germany has been going on for years. In addition, in Holland there have
been fewer payment problems regarding insurance premiums than anticipated.

On the 38th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 19 May 2006
- The press reported that firearms in Belgium are now only available with a license. Virtually all illegal weapons in Holland are bought in Belgium. Now in order to receive a license, a series of criteria need to be fulfilled, and the license is only valid for a maximum of five years. This is very good news for Holland.
- The Belgium/Holland bank, Fortis, reported that cash flow is coming into the bank at a much higher
rate than outflow. Fortis has a positive operating leverage of 2.5 per cent. Most banks work with a
negative operating leverage.
- The Initial Public Offering (IPO) of one of the largest Dutch banks has many subscriptions from private investors. This is the first IPO in years that is open to private investors. Twenty-one per cent of all shares went to individuals. 1.2 billion Euros has been raised in this IPO.
- The press reported that the position of older employees in the labour market is improving. From February to April of this year, the unemployment rate for people 45 to 64 years of age decreased again, marking the turnaround of a negative trend. Now only 6 per cent of the working population is unemployed; it used to be 7 per cent.
- Today the press confirmed the prediction of Royal Dutch Shell, that there will be no shortage of fossil energy in the foreseeable future. 1,100 billion barrels are in reserve in Saudi Arabia, which is enough for 250 years with the present usage worldwide.

On the 39th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 20 May 2006
- The Prime Minister of Holland expressed more optimism about Holland’s future. He said: ‘Holland
has to sizzle. Investing in a new economy is going to be my credo . . . The VOC mentality has to come
back.’ VOC stands for the United East-Indies Company, the first Dutch multinational corporation,
started in 1602. That was the time Holland enjoyed a Golden Age, not only economically, but also in
the fields of art (Rembrandt, Vermeer) and science (Constantijn Huygens). Today we see a true Golden
Age dawning for Holland, based on life day by day coming into full accord with the full potential of
Natural Law.
- Since 1 May citizens have had the opportunity to put subjects on the agenda of Parliament. To do so,
all that is needed is 40,000 signatures from their fellow citizens. Yesterday, the first citizens’ initiative was filed from Clean Air Netherlands. Those who signed the initiative want to have a smoke-free workplace for restaurant employees.
- The press reported that 60 per cent of the population want to have smoke-free restaurants and cafes. These are the only public places where smoking is still allowed. Also, 59 per cent of youngsters, aged 16 to 24, support the idea of smoke-free restaurants.
- The Prime Minister said he wants to launch a plan to make a few thousand Euros per adult available
for continuing education or to be re-educated for another occupation. The total project would take
hundreds of millions of Euros, but could put Holland back on the path of a highly knowledgeable and innovative society.
- The press reported that the company Philips, one of the national prides of Holland, expressed great confidence in the future. CEO Mr Kleisterlee stated: ‘New heights await us; good chapters will be written.’
Philips has transformed itself from a mass electronics company to a producer of both lifestyle products and medical systems. Health care has become the major life-supporting focus of Philips.

On the 40th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 21 May 2006
- Former President of South Africa, Mr F.W. de Klerk, has asked The Netherlands-South African
Association to find ways and means to prevent Afrikaans, a local Dutch dialect, from disappearing in South Africa. Fourteen per cent of South Africa’s population still speaks Afrikaans, but there is pressure from the government to move towards English. Other local African languages are also at stake. Mr de Klerk wants to save these cultural heritages.
- The press reported that an academy for contemporary music is to open in Utrecht. In addition to stimulating the musical uniqueness and creativity of every applicant, the academy will also teach business skills. The qualities of artists and businesspeople will be combined and integrated at the academy.
- The Dutch Spyker cars have ‘conquered’ China. There is enormous demand for the highly luxurious
Dutch car—even though in China tax levies have caused the price of the car to be over 500,000 Euros. However, even at this price, within several months Spyker has become the second largest seller of luxury cars after Ferrari.

On the 41st day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 22 May 2006
- The press reported that the Dutch government has created a fund of 600 million Euros from natural
gas profits to support scientific research. This fund is expected to bring Holland back to the top of European scientific research.
- A specialized college, named the ‘Process College Mainport Rotterdam’, was recently started to help
train the many additional professionals that are needed at Rotterdam harbour. The college, a school
for operators, was founded through the cooperation of several large educational institutions. Another
school, School for Maintenance, will be starting soon.
- The press reported that construction of houses is increasing every year. The government would like to
create between 405,000 and 445,000 new houses before the end of 2010.
- The newly founded Fortune Creating Living Development Corporation BV is planning marble Peace
Colonies for Holland and worldwide, built according to the principles of Maharishi Sthåpatya Veda,
the Vedic Science of Architecture according to Natural Law.
- OPTA, the telecom regulator, wants to take steps so that the incumbent KPN gives other telecom
operators complete access to their newly built fibre optic network that is being laid down throughout Holland. In addition to high quality, they would like to guarantee low costs for the end-user.
- A current trade balance of 3.7 billion Euros confirms that Holland is really approaching an economic boom.
- The press reported that at the beginning of 2006, fewer Dutch citizens reported feeling unsafe compared to a year ago. Citizens of Zeeland felt safest. In addition, the number of reported incidents of crime went down from 47.2 per 100 citizens to 42.7. The total number of reported crimes went from 6.2 million in 2005 to 5.6 million now—an unprecedented 9.6 per cent drop. We expect the reduction in crime rate for the second quarter of the year will be even more dramatic.

On the 42nd day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 23 May 2006
- The press reported that housing associations have received permission from the court to build beyond
the Dutch borders. This new flexibility came as a result of a case involving a corporation in Maastricht that wanted to build in Belgium. The court decided that the free flow of capital throughout the European Union supersedes national interests.
- Maharishi Global Finance Corporation is being established, and at the same time stock markets throughout the world are making moves towards consolidation. The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) made an offer to acquire the Euronext—which is part of the Amsterdam Stock Exchange—for 8 billion
Euros.
- The press reported that the position of highly educated individuals seeking their first job is better today with the improving economy. This is especially true for students with financial, administrative, and technical skills.
- The company SNS Reaal was able to place the extra 15 per cent of its shares needed for its Green Shoe, after its successful initial public offering a few days earlier in adverse market conditions. The Green Shoe is normally used to regulate the market after the Initial Public Offering (IPO). Full placement means a highly successful IPO. More than 10 million shares were placed through the Green Shoe.
- Young children should learn through playing, according to Maharishi’s Consciousness-based Approach to Education. The PC game industry is now designing games that help young children to develop
motor and cognitive skills. The games help children to gather specific knowledge, thus helping them
to gain proficiency in the process of learning.
- The press reported that for the first time ever a sea eagle has been found breeding in Holland, close to Lelystad. Formerly, the sea eagle was only breeding in Poland, then slowly expanded towards Germany in recent years, and it has now arrived in Holland.

On the 43rd day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 24 May 2006
- The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) predicts that the Gross
Domestic Product will increase 2.4 per cent—due especially to higher exports, company investments,
and customer spending.
- Consumer confidence improved slightly in May, and the consumer’s ‘readiness to buy’ increased
significantly.
- The press reported that the company Philips has expanded further with the acquisition of the British multinational corporation Arent.
- The Minister of Finance, Mr Zalm, has eased reporting requirements for cash transactions. Formerly, a report was required for cash transactions of 15,000 Euros; now it is only required for transactions of 25,000 Euros or more, significantly reducing the amount of paperwork. The purpose of the reports is to identify possible criminal transactions.
- The press reported that violence involving weapons has decreased over the last three years in
Amsterdam, with a 14.3 per cent decrease in the larger region, a 37 per cent decrease in Amsterdam
Centre, and a 29.4 per cent decrease in South-East Amsterdam. About two-thirds of the decrease took
place over this last year, and we expect to see an even more significant decrease this year.
- The Deputy Minister, Mr van Geel, plans to make a strong proposal at the European Union for the
earlier introduction of mandatory root-filters for diesel cars. Holland wants this now, however the
European Union wants to wait until 2015. In Holland, 40 per cent of new owners of diesel cars have already, voluntarily, put in a root-filter.
- The press reported that there is a new slogan for healthy food in Holland: ‘I choose consciously.’ The slogan is carried by the three largest food manufacturers on products that meet certain criteria for amounts of transfatty acids, saturated fatty acids, sodium, and sugar.

On the 44th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 25 May 2006
- The press reported that soon farmers in Holland will be producing green energy on a large scale.
Applications are rising for the installation of biogas—a system that transforms organic waste into
methane fuel using anaerobic bacteria, thus allowing farmers to use manure as fuel. By next year it is expected that enough energy will be produced to supply 100,000 households. In the future up to 1.2 million households could be served with this approach.
- The City Council of Amsterdam is going to maintain a weblog on which the mayor and the councilmen will describe the events of each week. The weblog will be a means for the City Council to maintain a close connection to the citizens of Amsterdam.
- The press reported that the percentage of obese adults is decreasing and more people are taking a sufficient amount of light exercise. Smoking and heavy drinking among youth has also decreased.
- The Dutch Cabinet supports giving 4 million Euros annually to enhance multicultural contacts within
Holland. The Cabinet would like to support successful projects in communities and schools, hoping to improve social integration within Dutch society.
- The Prime Minister has been given a stronger position in the Cabinet. He is no longer only the first among equals, but he is now really a government leader. Formerly he could only place subjects on the agenda with approval of the majority vote of the Cabinet. The Prime Minister now has more freedom to decide upon the agenda, which gives him more freedom in European affairs.

On the 45th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 26 May 2006
- By 2020, glass greenhouses will no longer be consuming energy, as reported Wednesday at the opening
of the first energy neutral glasshouse in Bemmel. All glass greenhouses to be built from the present
onwards will be energy neutral or even energy-producing. In this new approach to building glass
greenhouses, solar energy is collected during the summer and stored 35 to 70 metres underground in a
water bubble.
During winter, the warm water will be pumped up. This requires a highly efficient heat exchanger,
called ‘Fiwihex’, which was specially developed by Akzo. Currently glass greenhouses use 4 billion
cubic metres of natural gas per year, about 10 per cent of the national usage. With the current high gas
prices, farmers needed an alternative.
- The Technical University Delft and HT Group plan to unite to form the European Center for Innovation
(ECI). Six European universities and the multinationals Shell, Philips, Nokia, Unilever, DSM and
Daimler Chrysler have also been invited to participate.
- The Minister of Economic Affairs, Mr Brinkman, said it would take measures this year to ensure
energy savings of 2 per cent per annum. The prior aim was 1.5 per cent per year.
- There is a new conduct code proposed for pediatricians, which states that doctors would have to object
against deportation of their foreign patients, if this would harm their health. The code also states that
children always should be treated, whether or not they have health insurance.
- The Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Internal Affairs announced that 4,600 military men are going
to be made available to assist in case of calamities within Holland, such as floods, etc., should they
occur.
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On the 46th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 27 May 2006
- Confidence in the Cabinet is increasing. Last year confidence was only 15 per cent; now it is up to 24
per cent. The Prime Minister’s popularity has increased to 33 per cent. These percentages are quite
high for a multi-party administration.
- Techtour, a presentation given recently by 24 of the most promising technical companies in Holland
to 60 venture capitalists and administrators of large companies, showed that the high tech sector is on
a high international level.
- The police forces of the three northern provinces are working very closely together and in doing so
save tremendously on overhead costs. Before the initiative, policemen had to spend more and more
time on administration and bureaucratic tasks; now they have time to do their real work again.
- The number of people taking anti-depressants decreased last year. This indicates that depression is
becoming less prevalent in Holland, for adults as well as youngsters, and in 2006 we expect to see a
further decrease in this area.
- Consumption of vegetables and fruits is increasing, reversing a previous trend towards less
consumption.
On the 47th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 28 May 2006
Today we want to refer to The Netherland’s Economic Climate Clock for the month of May.
Each month the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) compiles an index based on the following economic
indicators:
consumer confidence, producer confidence, order volume, consumption, large purchases, interest
rates, export, investments, production, Gross National Product (GNP), volume of labour hours, job vacancies,
unemployment, hours with job agencies, and bankruptcies. The Economic Climate Clock reflects the state of
the national economy based on the index.
The analysis for May 2006 concludes:
‘The positive economic climate is undiminished. The economic climate as of the end of May is positive.’
The majority of the indicators on the Economic Climate Clock lie in the green quadrant—the phase
of economic boom. This means that for most of the indicators, growth is increasing and lies above the
long-term average.
Almost all indicators on the Economic Climate Clock as of the end of May show an increase. Thirteen
of the fifteen indicators are placed in the two right quadrants—the green and yellow quadrants.
To view a picture of the Economic Climate Clock, please see:
http://www.cbs.nl/nl-NL/menu/themas/macro-economie-financiele-instellingen/conjunctuurgegevens/publicaties/
conjunctuurbericht/inhoud/conjunctuurklok/ck-homepage.htm
On the 48th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 29 May 2006
- The press reported that trade between Holland and Turkey is increasing. The Dutch Prime Minister
opened a new federation of young entrepreneurs, HOGIAF, on 30 May, to handle trade between
Holland
and Turkey. Turkey has a great interest in the knowledge and entrepreneurship of Holland.
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- The Innovation Platform, chaired by the Prime Minister, calls for doubling the budget for innovation
and knowledge between 2008 and 2011. The budget for 2008 is set at 3 billion Euros which will
increase
to 6 billion Euro by 2011. The goal of the Innovation Platform is to allow Holland and Europe
to start to play an important role again in science, research, and development worldwide.
- TPG Post, one of the largest Dutch employers, has announced that they would like to help their
employees of ethnic descent—approximately 30 per cent of their employees—integrate directly into
the work place, without prior training time spent in theoretical courses at a school or institute. This
news is welcomed throughout TPG Post as a progressive attitude, good for the morale of employees.
- The press reported that culture vouchers are becoming more popular among the youth of Holland.
Formerly only 60 per cent of young people used to visit museums or go to concerts. That percentage
has now risen to 76 per cent, resulting in a 5.5 million Euro income for cultural institutions.
On the 49th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 30 May 2006
- In Holland, the local town government of Boekel has taken the lead in reducing the number of governmental
restrictions on citizens. The code regarding the external appearance of buildings—Welstandcommissie—
was eliminated. Building permits are given within ten minutes. Everyone is very pleased
with this new system, whereby the citizens themselves collectively organize their environment in an
orderly way.
- The Dutch company Oxycom has invented a climate control and air conditioning system that uses 50
per cent less energy than comparable installations. In some cases it uses up to 90 per cent less energy.
The system was presented and introduced in China. It is a year-round climate control system that utilizes
permanently fresh air that is blown in from outside. It does not use cooling fluids, which harm
the ozone layer.
- The Deputy Minister for Health, Clemence Ross, has reserved 68.2 million Euros to create and/or redesign
4,400 living facilities for the elderly in South Limburg. These redesigned senior living facilities
will allow the elderly to live in their own homes much longer. At the same time, it means that waiting
lists for nursing homes for the truly needy are eliminated.
- A coalition of three parties in Holland is working to ensure that handicapped students have equal
treatment in schools and educational institutes. Currently, handicapped workers have equal treatment
within the labor market and in occupational education, and the goal is to ensure these same rights
within the school system.
On the 50th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 31 May 2006
- The press reported that hospital treatment costs are going to be more flexible—within certain boundaries—
so that hospitals and insurance companies have more room for negotiation. The Minister of
Health Care, Hoogervorst, hopes that in this way hospitals will become competitive in price and quality.
Hoogervorst believes high quality and low prices should go hand in hand.
- A new website has just been launched that makes buying environmentally friendly products easier.
The website brings buyers and sellers of such products together. The name of the website, gubba.nl,
comes from the ancient Syrian word for water well, where people came together to socialize and trade.
The website promoters plan to open a shop in Amsterdam and even issue their own credit card.
- 2,000 streets in Holland were closed to traffic on Wednesday in order to allow children to play safely.
This initiative was organized by the traffic safety organization, 3VO. 3VO calls for street designs that
take into account space for children to play.
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- The press reported that provinces are now wealthier. They have a surplus of 215 million Euros, which is
double that of the previous year and the highest since 1999, according to Bureau of Statistics (CBS).
- A new wall that blocks highway noise and also purifies the air has been invented. It absorbs and
decomposes harmful elements of traffic exhaust, especially nitrogen dioxide.
On the 51st day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 1 June 2006
- The Minister of Social Affairs, Mr de Geus, has started a campaign to emphasize the capability of
partially handicapped workers. As part of the campaign, he instituted a new term, ‘partly abled’ rather
than ‘partly disabled’. The goal of the campaign is to stimulate and motivate employers to hire partly
abled workers. There is great optimism about this initiative, which is being funded by employers,
employees, the government, and various institutions.
- The press reported that the number of long-term marriages, of 50 years or more, has risen significantly
over time.
- For the third year in a row, the final philosophy exam for high school students has dealt with the
concept of virtue. Virtues, according to the textbook by Paul van Tongeren, are associated with a
successful and happy life—and living a successful and happy life is an art. Role models are the best
way to learn—imitating them leads to good character. Central virtues include: moderation, courage,
wisdom/sensibility, and justice.
- An animal rights organization has asked supermarkets to stop price wars. While price wars may be
good for consumers, animals are the ones that suffer. As margins become too small, farmers try to save
on everything. This includes keeping cows inside, which is more economical for milking. The slogan
of the animal protection organization is: ‘The cow is seeking a meadow.’ The organization argues that
letting the cows out is better for consumers also, because cows are happier and healthier when grazing
outside and so produce much better milk.
- The press reported that the company Gastronics Netherlands has invented a new technology that
mixes Liquified Petroleum Gas and diesel, thus allowing trucks to run more economically. Unlike the
use of diesel alone, almost all of the mixed fuel is burned. This technology eliminates polluting black
diesel smoke, because almost no residue remains.
On the 52nd day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 2 June 2006
- The press reported that 34 of the largest Dutch towns have committed to providing 13,000 ‘learning-
jobs’, which combine working and learning. These ‘learning-jobs’ are intended to help those who
leave school early. Also, companies in the 34 towns can make use of a no-risk policy: If an employee
falls sick, his salary will be paid by the town administration. The Cabinet has reserved 10 million
Euros for this purpose. In addition to the no-risk policy, employers receive a fiscal discount of 5,500
Euros per ‘learning employee’ each year. The Minister of Social Affairs, de Geus, said: ‘Now that the
economy has started to boom, this programme is in the best interest of society.’
- Holland now belongs to a select group of countries with a budget surplus. According to the twelvemonth
moving average, during the month of April—for the first time—less money was spent than
received. 3.9 billion Euros is the projected twelve month balance, which would offset the negative balance
of local authorities and social funds, yielding an annual surplus of 0.4 per cent. Experts estimate
that this projection is quite conservative. In the first four months of the year, a 2.9 billion Euro surplus
was collected. A few years ago Holland had a budget deficit of 3 per cent.
- The press reported that 90 per cent of Dutch people are satisfied with the services of their family doctor—
a remarkably high percentage.
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- The cost of medical and social care is currently increasing by a significantly smaller percentage than in
the past. In 2002 there was a 13 per cent increase, and this year costs only increased by 2.8 per cent.
- The Minister of Health is calling for a 2 million Euro alcohol education programme. The Minister
will educate parents, who have become increasingly tolerant of alcohol usage by their children, about
alcohol usage via a special website, pamphlets, and an information phone line.
On the 53rd day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 3 June 2006
- The press reported that eight Ministers of the Dutch government, along with a representative of the
city administration and the population, have adopted one ‘problem neighbourhood’ each. They will
work to remove bureaucratic obstacles and reorganize and improve the situation in each neighbourhood.
Currently, four neighbourhoods in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht have been
selected. Four more towns are on the nomination list.
- Juvenile delinquents can have a lessened prison sentence if they choose a ‘learn and work’ programme,
which combines education with working. Such jobs can become part of sentences in the future, according
to Minister of Social Affairs, de Geus. This type of programme is a more effective means of rehabilitation
than regular prison punishment.
- The press reported that extra funds are being allotted for pre-school education. This year, the Minister
of Education, Verhoeven, is ensuring that half of the children with poorly educated parents receive
pre-school education—especially language skills.
- An additional category has been added to warnings regarding the age-appropriateness of television
programmes and films. Currently the age specific warnings go from ‘parental guidance suggested for
children under age 6’ to ‘parental guidance suggested for children under age 12’. Now a separate category
for children under age 9 has been created to bridge the gap in development between age 6 and
age 12.
- The cabinet has announced a new goal: Half of the Dutch working population to have a university
degree by 2020. This will balance the growing shortage of professionals in society.
On the 54th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 4 June 2006
- The Nyenrode Business University has opened a rotating chair for ‘Business Spirituality’, because
interest in business-related spirituality is growing internationally. For the first two years, the position
will be filled by Paul de Chauvigny de Blot. He will address the role of spirituality in organizational
renewal and investigate its influence on a company’s competitive strength. He questions whether
European
enterprises are losing their competitive position to countries such as Japan and China due to
lack of spirituality. He notes that in these countries employees are willing to put much more personal
energy into their company.
- The press reported that the Ministries of Economic Affairs and Education have started an initiative
to stimulate entrepreneurship among youth. The slogan for the initiative is ‘Entrepreneurial thinking
starts at school.’ Seventy entrepreneurs have been invited to teach classes throughout the country.
- There is a growing interest in funds that invest in companies that produce alternative forms of energy.
The Dutch bank Theodoor Gillissen Bankiers opened a fund investing in this industry last year. The
yield was 50 per cent. They now plan to open a second fund to meet the expected demand.
- The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the pan-European exchange, Euronext—of which the
Amsterdam Stock Exchange is a part—are proposing to merge to create the world’s largest stock
- 25 -
market. The directors of Euronext are supporting the transaction. The NYSE agreed to buy Euronext
for USD 9.9 billion in cash and stock.
- Royal Dutch Shell has started mixing two per cent biofuel with its diesel. Earlier this year, Royal
Dutch Shell started mixing biofuel with regular gas in order to help lesson carbon dioxide emissions,
which contribute to global warming. As an incentive, no taxes will be paid on this biofuel until 2007.
In 2007, the mix will become mandatory.
- The press reported that there are 4 per cent fewer people on welfare as compared to last year. Young
people in particular are benefiting from the improving economy. People under 35 years of age accounted
for 80 per cent of the decrease.
- There has been a record turnover of stock transactions in May. The average transactions per day were
953,000.
On the 55th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 5 June 2006
- The Minister of Health, Mr Hoogervorst, expects one hundred per cent smoke-free cafes and restaurants
in the near future. He fully dismissed a study done by the well-reputed Netherlands Organization
for Applied Scientific Research known as TNO, which stated that with good ventilation systems
second-hand smoke was reduced to almost zero. Hoogervorst’s response was justified when a second
study done to verify the research showed that ventilation only removed 50 to 80 per cent of smoke.
- The press reported that Amsterdam has eased the enormous list of regulations and cut through the red
tape required for new building permits.
- Dutch industries, especially the steel and electro-technology industries, expect to invest 14 per cent
more than last year, according to the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS). The oil and gas industry
expects to invest 53 per cent more. These are signs of optimism about the future.
- Spending on advertisements has increased to 1.6 per cent now that the economy is improving. Spending
is now at 4.3 billion Euros, the same level as the record year 2000.
- Due to the reduction in the number of employees claiming full disability, the benefits will most likely
increase to 75 per cent of the previous earned wages, one year ahead of schedule.
- The press reported that large investments in health care are paying off: waiting lists at hospitals have
decreased by 20 per cent.
- The new City Council of Rotterdam plans to publicly introduce 37 measures in the first 100 days of the
Council, when it sets its agenda. Normally, citizens do not hear what goes on behind the closed-door
sessions of the negotiations during the first three months after the new Council has been voted in. This
new Council wants to involve the citizens of Rotterdam as much as possible in the choice of the 37
measures as well as the programme itself. The themes the Council wants to emphasize are: offering
opportunities, investing in the city, focusing on our youth, and involving entrepreneurs as partners.
On the 56th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly. 6 June 2006
- The press reported that Mr Pieter van Geel, the Netherlands’ State Secretary for the Environment,
is launching an energy voucher, which can be given as a present, and used to buy environmentally
friendly products. In addition, 10,000 households will receive an energy box free of cost. Users of the
box can save 10 per cent off their energy use when they order products.
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- Many more cars in Holland are driving on coleseed oil. The emission of coleseed vehicles contains
no heavy metals or sulphur, and soot levels are 50 per cent down compared to diesel. Moreover, it is
CO2-neutral. The company Solar Oil Systems sees demand for the oil rising spectacularly, due to both
its environmental friendliness and to high diesel prices. Solar Oil Systems has the only coleseed oil
mill in Holland, and currently cannot meet the demand. There is an enormous potential for using the
oil worldwide.
- Compared with other international corporations, the Dutch score high on sustainability. Sustainability
is measured by the Dutch Sustainability Research Institute on the basis of how well corporations
deal with corruption, fraud, human rights, employee rights, and their customers. Twenty-one out of
24 AEX companies (the most traded 24 large companies on the Amsterdam Stock Exchange) scored
better than their branch counterparts worldwide.
- The press reported that the number of private investors rose significantly for the first time since the
year 2000. This is one hundred thousand more than the previous year.
- The fact that Dutch investors want to have their money invested in life-supporting projects was proven
when the social-ethical ASN-Novib Fund (ANF) had to put a cap on investments due to high demand.
The investment fund, which is supervised by the Dutch Central Bank, has collected more money than
needed for proper investing.
On the 57th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 7 June 2006
- The Netherlands is subsidizing sustainable energy projects for China with 45 million Euros, which
should lead to lower carbon dioxide emissions. As stated in the Kyoto Protocol, Holland can then
take these savings of CO2 emissions into its own account. The Kyoto Protocol allows companies and
investors in more industrialized countries to invest in and profit from cuts in emissions in developing
nations. The Kyoto agreement commits some 40 industrialized countries to binding pollution cuts by
2008 to 2012. Developing countries such as China and India are exempted for a few years from making
pollution cuts, to allow for the time it takes to implement environment-friendly policies that can
also sustain economic development.
- The press reported that more handicapped workers are finding jobs in the regular labour market. Ten
per cent of workers are handicapped, up from 6.7 per cent in 2003. With training, handicapped workers
are able to hold regular jobs. Because special institutes are now equipped for the handicapped, more
people are finding work.
- The press reported that the new Gubba website—a website intended to be a meeting place for consumers
and producers of environmentally friendly products—has received a huge boost from the commitment
of a large pension fund (PGGM) and energy supplier (Eneco) to offer their 2.5 million customers
a discount of 25 Euro on products they buy at this web shop. They currently offer 500 products, from
eco-friendly vacations to environment-friendly products.
On the 58th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 8 June 2006
- The press reported that The Netherlands Central Planning Bureau expects higher economic growth for
2006 than originally predicted. Economic growth was estimated at 2.75 per cent this year and is now
estimated at 3 per cent growth. Employment has increased by .25 per cent with 25,000 fewer people
unemployed.
- More Dutch people are exercising—64 per cent in 2006, up from 60 per cent in 2004. An increase from
44 per cent to 50 per cent took place by those people who are complying with the ‘Netherlands Norm for
Healthy Exercise’, which consists of walking, bicycling or swimming for half an hour, five days a week.
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- The press reported that car theft in Amsterdam is down by 13 per cent. In Zaanstreek, car thefts were
down by almost 50 per cent. Car keys are often stolen from homes, and police think that their new
approach to preventing burglary of homes is the cause.
- The Hague is reserving 72 million Euros to help people who are on social security return to work. The
goal is to employ 5,000 people in five years.
- According to the Chief Financial Officers Business Outlook Survey, financial officers are optimistic
about economic developments in Europe. Forty per cent were more optimistic than the previous
quarter—which is the highest level all year. They expect company profits to increase by 13 per cent
and plan to invest an extra 5 per cent. The CFO Business Outlook Survey is organized by Erasmus
University of Rotterdam, Duke University (USA), and CFO Europe Magazine.
- The press reported that consumer confidence is higher, which results in higher revenues for supermarkets.
According to the Central Bureau of Food Articles Commerce, supermarket revenues have increased 3 per
cent during the first five months of 2006, which is a monetary increase of half a billion Euros.
On the 59th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 9 June 2006
- The Dutch industry sector would like to see fewer cars on the road. In order to encourage people to
take the train to work and thereby lessen traffic, Rabobank will give train tickets to all of their 4,800
lease car drivers.
- The Schiphol Group, a leading airport operator, creates thousands of jobs for Holland. They are bringing
Chinese wholesale companies to Europe; negotiating to take over the management of shops in the
Guanghzou, China airport, which has 25 million passengers per year; and are investing in the Nanjing
Lukou International Airport of the province of Jiangsu, China, which has 80 million people. The
Schiphol Group already manages a terminal at the JFK airport in New York, USA.
- The press reported that Dutch beaches are the cleanest of Western Europe. Also the swimming water
at the sea is clean, according to the findings of a study by the European Commission on the quality of
European swimming water. All 82 beaches are declared to be clean. Only the Netherlands, Cyprus,
and Greece received a 100 per cent score. Nine out of ten beaches comply even with the highest European
norms.
- Deputy Minister, Mr van Geel, opened the first bio-ethanol fuel station in Rotterdam. The station
provides E85, which consists of 85 per cent bio-ethanol, and 15 per cent regular gas.
- The press reported that private investors were not surprised by the falling stock prices over the last
few weeks, due to the natural correction that always takes place after a rapid increase. Investor confidence
is not only influenced by stock prices, but also by personal finances, and the state of the Dutch
economy. Investors are very positive about these two factors. Thirty-six per cent of investors saw their
personal financial situation improve, which is a record since the start of the Investor’s Barometre in
2002. Three-quarters of investors think the economic situation in Holland did improve, and two-thirds
expect it to improve further in the coming months.
- ‘Netherlands flowers through Yogic Flying’, reported the newspaper Trouw. The article reported
that the Dutch government is encountering fewer problems than other governments. The economy
is thriving; there is a feeling among the people that the country is running smoothly and is
headed in the right direction. According to Maharishi European Research University (MERU),
all thanks goes to the Yogic Flying group in Vlodrop. The TM Movement wants this coherence,
harmony, and invincibility to increase in Holland. In response to this news, His Holiness
Maharishi
Mahesh Yogi said, ‘It took them 59 days to observe and notice it. In the next country,
it will take fewer days.’
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On the 60th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 10 June 2006
- The Dutch company Agrofair has been importing organic bananas for the last ten years, which they
buy exclusively from small farmers at a fixed price. The banana is an eco banana, and is now being
marketed as the ‘ok-banana’ to distinguish it from regular bananas. Dutch supermarkets are now buying
the ok-banana in large quantities for the general market, which reflects the growing demand for
organic produce. Organic is becoming increasingly mainstream as the general public’s awareness is
heightened regarding its better flavour, greater health benefits, and ecological sustainability.
- The press reported that, according to the Central Bureau of Statistics, Dutch industry showed a five per
cent increase in revenue in April of this year compared to the same time last year.
- The press reported that the Cabinet has eased the rules for domestic workers. They do not have to pay
taxes or social security if they work less than three days a week.
- Holland is considered, by some, as one of the most secular countries in the world. Therefore, it is
remarkable that religion is enjoying a revival, stimulated by the strong interest in a best-selling novel
dealing with ancient Calvinistic Dutch history. The book deals with themes of transcendence, the
underlying meaning of life, and human destiny guided by an omnipotent God.
On the 61st day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 11 June 2006
- The Minister of Education, Mrs van der Hoeven, has launched ‘Allochtonous Parents and Education’, a
programme to encourage parents from ethnic backgrounds to place more emphasis and attention on their
children’s educational needs.
- Government finances are more balanced, according to the Central Planning Bureau. Budget surplus (more
income and less expenditure) is expected to be 0.5 per cent for the coming year. The outlook is positive.
- The population of Holland is delighted that Arthur Docters van Leeuwen, Chairman of the Executive
Board of the Netherlands Authority for Financial Markets (AFM), and former head of the Dutch
Internal Security Service, has launched a campaign to be a politician. He is considered to be a very
capable leader who studied Dutch law at the University of Utrecht, specializing in constitutional and
administrative law. He stated that Holland has a good administration, but far too may administrators.
He said that the number of regulators, departments, and administrators needs to decrease significantly.
He also finds that his own bureau, AFM, is too rigid.
- The press reported that all Ministers and Deputy-Ministers spent a day traveling throughout the country—
North, South, East, and West—visiting schools, companies, care institutes, etc. They focused on
various aspects including: safety, respect, fewer rules and regulations, and on increasing employment
wherever possible. This reflects the true purpose of administrators, which is to serve a nourishing
parental role for the nation.
On the 62nd day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 12 June 2006
- The Central Planning Bureau sees future structural growth as two per cent annually. The extra growth
comes from an increase in productivity due to increased investments.
- The Minister of Finance, Mr Zalm, expressed that cash transfer fees to non-European Union countries
are much too high. Families who send money to families abroad are especially affected by these high
rates. These transfer fees by migrants have been calculated as twice as high as the total developmental
aid, totalling about 200 billion Euros a year. The Finance Minister wants to eliminate the obstacles
that hinder the eradication of poverty, the press reports.
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- The Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research chooses four winners for the Spinoza Prize. The
Spinoza Prize comes with an award of 1.5 million Euros. Prize winners this year are:
Professor Zaanen, for his work on superfluidity; Professor Benzing, a psychologist who developed an
ingenious scheme to evaluate the medical doctor/patient relationship. She is one of the few women
ever honoured with this award. Professor Figdor was awarded for his work on immunology therapy in
cancer, and Professor Scheres, who proved from his studies of molecular genetics that the mechanics
of plants and animals are similar, was also awarded the prize.
- Amsterdam now gives its policemen extra education on how to deal with the ‘new’ multicultural society,
especially focusing on dealing with violence among youth. There are 150 different nationalities
in Amsterdam, and 50 per cent of the population has an ethnic background. Along with a focus on
understanding how other cultures think, the Amsterdam police department is trying to recruit more
ethnic agents.
On the 63rd day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 13 June 2006
- Free, read-aloud books for very young children of foreign language families, that will help them be
at the same reading level as the other children when they enter school, is a new initiative by the local
government in Amsterdam. The books teach about 1,000 of the most common words that children
know when they first enter school.
- The Monster Employment Index, published by Monsterboard, the largest internet job recruiter, shows
that the number of job opportunities continues to grow in Holland for the fourth month in a row. The
Netherlands job market has shown the strongest growth in Europe. Only Germany showed some increase
in job opportunity growth. In Holland, the Marketing, Media, and PR sector—the first sector to reduce
when the economy weakens—showed growth, indicating that the economic recovery remains robust.
- Citizens who choose to move and live closer to their work should receive a benefit, says the Minister
of Public Housing, Mrs Dekker. She suggests canceling the real estate transfer tax, which is charged
when buying Dutch real estate. It would save new homeowners about 18,000 Euro.
On the 64th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 14 June 2006
- Dutch flower revenues are 6 per cent higher this year than at the same time last year. The month of
May had record revenue growth, almost 21 per cent higher as compared to last year.
- The press reported that three major parties in Parliament have demanded Dutch citizens have free
admission to all public museums. All eligible citizens will receive a ‘cultural passport’ with their tax
return forms, which will give free admittance for the whole family.
- The Minister of Justice, Donner, and Minister of Social Affairs, de Geus, have suggested that stronger
anti-competition rules are needed for employees leaving their companies. It was suggested that going
to work for the competition be restricted for one year. The idea was vetoed, and now employees have
more freedom of choice.
- A poll was held by the Middle- and- Small- Sized Companies Organization (MKB), which revealed
that 56 per cent expect to make higher revenues in the third quarter of 2006, and 59 per cent expect
higher profits. The organization expects to hire more people in the third quarter.
- Currently, employers voluntarily offer partial child-care benefits to their employees. The Minister of
Social Affairs, de Geus, is now making participation of employers in the programme mandatory, and
the cost will be shared between employers, the government, and employees.
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On the 65th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 15 June 2006
- Organizations that support good causes will work together to defend common interests, obtain a fiscal
break for donors, and they will attempt to have 0.1 per cent of income tax slated toward organizations
that support good causes.
- The Bureau for Work and Income (CWI) expects a significant increase in available jobs, with 162,000
extra jobs created by next year. Unemployment for 2006 is expected to decrease by 40,000.
- The press reported that 75 per cent of Dutch entrepreneurs think that Holland’s economy will
improve in the third quarter. Three months ago, only half this group was as optimistic.
- Education is not keeping up with recent developments in society, therefore employers favour work
experience over having a diploma, the press reported. The work agency, Studelta, specializes in giving
students work experience during their studies that will help them obtain employment after graduation.
Studelta has a history of placing students in top positions in companies in the student’s field of study.
- The press reported that parliament is considering easing the rules and procedures for immigrants to
stay in Holland. All Dutch municipalities are urging amnesty for all immigrants who arrived before
April 2001.
On the 66th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 16 June 2006
- The press reported that a study by the Technical University Eindhoven showed that air quality in cities
can be improved 20 per cent if lease cars and delivery trucks run on relatively clean fuels such as Liquified
Petroleum Gas and Natural Gas. They emphasize that this is not long-term planning, but can be
implemented tomorrow with immediate results.
- The Central Bureau of Statistics reports that the average unemployment rate for the period from
March through May was less than six per cent for the first time since 2003. On the average
about
430,000 were jobless. The Bureau also confirmed this statistic for Work and Income (CWI). In
May, the number of people looking for work was down by 2.7 per cent while job opportunities
increased by 6 per cent. Young people looking for work benefited the most from the increase in
job opportunities.
- The Minister of Economic Affairs, Brinkhorst, announced that the Cabinet will invest 50 million
Euros
in a new innovation programme directed at the development of nano-electronics and ‘embedded
systems’, i.e. integration of software and hardware in products. The innovation programme, called
Point One, is a cooperation between Philips, ASMI, ASML, and some smaller companies, together
with several educational institutes. The programme has a total of 650 million Euros available until
2010. The total Dutch turnover in nano-electronics is currently 20 billion Euro.
On the 67th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 17 June 2006
- The Central Planning Bureau sees growth of jobs and a rise in salaries. Unemployment is decreasing
by one-third, or approximately 135,000 people, the press reported.
- It was reported that the Central Planning Bureau finds it remarkable that all the institutes that
make predictions about the Dutch economy are unanimously optimistic: the Cabinet, Dutch Central
Bank, Bureau for Work and Income, and Employer’s associations. This optimism extends
internationally: IMF, Oeso, the European Commission, and a group of large international banks
predict a 2.5 per cent growth for Holland in 2006.
- Louise Fresco of the Netherlands recently resigned as Assistant Director-General of the United Nations
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), because she found that there was too much bureaucracy,
- 31 -
and very slow decision-making. To the delight of the Dutch people she is currently taking the position
of professor of Sustainability and International Development at the Universities of Amsterdam
and Leiden. Her themes are to combine the issues of sustainability, international food shortages, and
culture. Because of her knowledge and interest in these issues, she has been asked to become the
Supervisory Director of the Rabobank, which is an agricultural bank.
- Royal Dutch Philips Electronics Limited—usually known as Philips—is one of the largest consumer
electronics producers in the world, and is continuing to expand in the medical care field. Recently, it
acquired the US company, Intermagnetic, which specializes in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI),
which is a noninvasive, non-x-ray diagnostic technique based on the magnetic fields of hydrogen
atoms in the body. MRI provides computer-generated images that allow visualization of scarred or
damaged areas of the body’s internal tissues and organs, and is considered more effective than the
standard x-ray.
- The press reported that in April there was a trade surplus of 2.8 billion Euros. The import volume
increased
by 9 per cent, and the exports increased by 8 per cent. The market value of imports increased
by 10 per cent to 22.1 billion Euro, and exports to 8 per cent or 24.9 billion Euro.
On the 68th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 18 June 2006
- The Dutch Parliament wants to change the Constitution to include a provision stating that the Dutch
Parliament must give explicit permission before the Dutch military is sent abroad on missions. Currently,
the Cabinet only needs to inform the Parliament, and they sometimes support missions that the
population does not support. For example, Dutch soldiers are currently posted in Afghanistan by order
of the Cabinet, while the majority of the Dutch population are not in favour.
- Farmers are opening their farms to the general public in order to increase the population’s knowledge
and interest in agriculture. Although many people are aware that proper care of the natural environment
is important, they do not always realize that farmers are important custodians who maintain the
landscape, and keep Holland healthy, happy, and energetic. When the public sees how much the farmers
work, they start to understand and appreciate them and their role as stewards of the land.
- Albert Heyn, one of the largest supermarket chains in Holland, is going to produce healthy food under
their own brand label, as there is an ever-increasing growth in demand for this food. By ‘healthy’ they
mean products that lower cholesterol.
- Consumer confidence is on the rise, and people are making large purchases of home furnishings. Revenue
in April increased 9.2 per cent compared to last year. In other areas of non-food retail revenues,
growth was 7.5 per cent. Retail revenues have been on the rise for nine months in a row. The press
reports that there has not been such a long period of growth seen since 2003.
On the 69th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 19 June 2006
- The Dutch Cabinet has simplified environmental regulations for companies, which should lessen
administrative costs by about 216 million Euros annually, and the regulations will be easier for companies
to implement. The new, simplified procedures affect 300,000 companies.
- Five nursing homes in Holland are not keeping their elderly clients waiting in line for admittance.
Instead, they are sending them, and their residents who want to travel, on well-organized vacations in
Spain. The costs are about the same, the residents and residents-in-waiting enjoy their time, and the
nursing home can focus on care of the more serious cases.
- The Free University of Amsterdam announced that a study they did on a leukemia treatment was very
successful, with a survival rate of 90 per cent after five years.
- 32 -
- The press reports that doctors at the University of Maastricht’s Medical Hospital performed a new
kind of surgery to correct heartburn, also known as acid reflux, without making any external incisions
into the stomach. The procedure, which uses a throat tube, miniature camera, and newly developed
robotic tools, involves fashioning a valve at the end of the esophagus. The procedure lessens the
chance of complications, and is less harmful for the body.
On the 70th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 20 June 2006
- The press reported in depth about Maharishi Åyur-Veda Spa Treatments, praising the health-giving benefits
of Maharishi Åyur-Veda. They focused on the primary purpose of creating balance and promoting
peace and harmony in the mind and body.
- Philips, one of the largest consumer electronics producers in the world, and ASML, a company which
specializes in semiconductor technology, have formed a venture capital fund to support start-up technology
companies in nano-technology and embedded systems (a combination of hardware and software
technology).
On the 71st day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 21 June 2006
- One of the last monopolies in Holland, Netbeheerder, is opening its net for the company Windnet—
one of the largest private windmill parks in Holland.
- Due to a significant decrease in the number of deaths attributed to coronary disease in Holland, cancer
is currently the number one fatal disease in Holland. The press reported that in order to address this
problem, the Free University has opened a large research institute in Amsterdam where 300 of the
top cancer researchers are brought together. A 12 million Euro gift from private donors allowed the
institute to open eight years ahead of schedule.
- The Amsterdam based design company iD-L successfully combines business with social responsibility,
the press reported. One iD-L inspired innovation is the Ragbag, the winner of the European
Business Awards for the Environment. Ragbag is a new brand for fashionable products made from
recycled plastic bags from Delhi, India. Ragbag products are designed by young European and Indian
designers. The project is an international cooperation of Conserve, a Delhi based non-governmental
organization, and iD-L inspired innovations. The fast-selling Ragbag project employs at least 50 people
in Delhi, India. It is a means of livelihood for them and their families, and through this project they
are gaining access to more opportunities.
- The press reported that a carpenter has invented a simple, wooden lift truck he calls ‘Door Mate’,
that enables one worker to place 10 doors a day easily on the lift. This is a great improvement on the
standard eight doors per day, two-worker job, which also caused the workers back pain. Thanks to
the recently established Innovation Platform chaired by the Prime Minister, the production of ‘Door
Mates’ has become the carpenter’s new business. He expects to sell 1,500 ‘Door Mates’ this year.
On the 72nd day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 22 June 2006
- The number of companies doing business in Holland has suddenly increased by almost 3 per cent, due to
less stringent rules for starting a company, as well as the reorganization of large firms in 2004. Currently,
there are a total of 1 million companies and company branches doing business in Holland.
- The press reports that clothing revenues have increased 20 per cent in May, as compared to 2005. The
largest areas of increase have been in men’s clothing with a 25 per cent increase, and children’s clothing
with a 30 per cent increase.
- 33 -
- The Minister of Immigration, Rita Verdonk, made a wise and sensible deal with coalition partners
regarding immigrants whose cases have been pending since the previous government. She received a
three-month extension to organize the last few thousand cases—considering those with families first.
She removed a naturalization exam, which appeared to be too difficult to pass even for local Dutch
people, from the new law proposal. Parliament considered the difficulty as a discrimination against
immigrants. In addition, approximately 1,000 pending cases will receive an extension due to dramatic
and extenuating circumstances. The party chairman of one of the largest coalition parties commented
that there is a strong intention to resolve this issue together.
- The press reported that the majority of Parliament wants to stimulate innovative research and development
through more attractive tax breaks for patents and royalties.
- There has been an agreement reached among many diverse interest groups concerning the privatization
of the Schiphol Airport, the press reported. Only minority shares will be sold, and shareholders
will gain more say in the running of the airport.
- Currently, there are 108,000 Dutch millionaires, which is a 5.3 per cent increase over last year. For
Holland, the definition of a millionaire is having assets of 1 million Euros, excluding their home.
The 5.3 per cent increase is significantly higher than the European growth of 4.5 per cent, the press
reports.
On the 73rd day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 23 June 2006
- NRC Handelsblad, one of the largest, most respected newspapers in Holland, wrote a report on the
Invincible Holland course in Vlodrop: ‘Invincible thanks to vital young men’—referring back to the
advertisement campaign of some months ago. The article said, ‘In Limburg’s Vlodrop, 400 foreigners
make Holland invincible. . . . According to Maharishi’s theory, Transcendental Meditation brings the
brain into a more coherent state. Brainwaves become more synchronous and the meditator experiences
deep rest. An added phenomenon is that the brainwaves can reach and influence the brains of others.
Meditation by a large group of people together leads to an increase of positive feelings in the world
and calming down of conflicts. In this way the meditation by the group should have the result that
nobody would consider attacking Holland or committing a terrorist attack in Holland.’
- It was reported that Europe as a whole is expected to have a higher number of bankruptcies through
2007. However, bankruptcies in Holland are currently decreasing because of economic growth. In
April, the average in Holland was 382, which was a significantly lower number than in March.
- Truck companies will save about 2,500 Euro per truck per year on fuel costs and traffic tickets by
lowering their speed from 89 kilometres per hour to 84 kilometres per hour.
- In order to have cleaner streets, the Dutch Cabinet wants to increase fines for littering, the press
reported. A large survey of the population showed that sixty-eight per cent of those surveyed approve
of the fines and think that they will be effective in preventing litter. Similar fines are in place in Singapore,
and have resulted in the desired effect of cleaner streets.
On the 74th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 24 June 2006
- New regulations that will come into effect over the next three years will make calls from fixed networks to
mobile networks 50 per cent cheaper. Dutch rates will become the lowest in Europe, the press reported.
- Farmers concerned with agricultural runoff (from pesticides and fertilizers), which contaminates the
water and is a health hazard, are using natural land management techniques to increase biodiversity
and improve the quality of water in waterways. Three provinces have been using this natural method,
- 34 -
and now the province of Zeeland is joining this group. Farmers who are participating in the programme
will receive financial compensation, the press reported.
- The Innovation Platform, which aims to create excellence, ambition, and leadership in the Netherlands,
has published a new report on education, with some dramatic proposals. The report is called
‘Learn to Excel’. They propose experimental schools where the talents of the students would be optimally
stimulated. The report states that our modern level of knowledge and technology needs talented,
gifted people. We need to leave the old thinking behind. Development of talent needs to become the
new goal of education. The Innovation Platform proposes regulation-free schools, schools that are
managed by teachers, parents, and students, and not by government rules.
- The press reported that this is a top season for the sale of fruits and vegetables, with supply barely able
to keep up with demand. There is substantial growth in revenues for farmers, as well as increased profits
to date this year. Exports remain steady, with the rising demand coming from inside the country.
- The Deputy Minister has eased the patent application process in Holland for small and medium-sized
companies, stating that the application process is too complex, time-consuming, and expensive. The
Deputy Minister is working to make the process cheaper and more transparent. Large companies usually
apply for European or worldwide patents.
- The Dutch Cabinet is eliminating many rules and regulations in order to streamline their procedures,
and their auditor’s office recommends the close involvement of industry in order to maximize the
impact of this endeavour.
On the 75th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 25 June 2006
- The Central Bureau of Statistics reports that consumer spending is up by 3.8 per cent in April, reflecting
confidence in the economy.
- Teachers from schools with students who need more help in passing the Cito test, a national performance
test, have received extra training in the last few years. Three of the five schools taking part in
the training have students who have raised their test grades to average, while two of the schools are
progressing, the press reported.
- Three out of four Dutch entrepreneurs report that they work mainly on the basis of their life philosophy
or religions beliefs, rather than material gain alone. They state that these convictions lead to
greater social responsibility in their business dealings.
- The trend of decreasing crime continues, with fewer burglaries, and fewer violent crimes such as robberies
and homicides. Prison sentences are down from 19,500 per year to 16,000 per year—a trend
reversal. Solved cases increased from 16 per cent to 21 per cent in the last year.
- The cabinet has approved new simpler, faster, and shorter procedures for filing annual accounts, saving
industry 70 million Euros, the press reported.
On the 76th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 26 June 2006
- The Dutch fair-trade company, Agrofair, the importer of ok-bananas cultivated on small farms, is now
exporting bananas to the United States. The fair trade bananas are a great success in Switzerland also,
and the ok-brand makes up 50 per cent of the total banana sales in Switzerland.
- All the diverse parties involved in the thirty-year stalemate on the extension of an important highway
between The Hague and Rotterdam have now reached an administrative agreement.
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- A new phase of employer/employee relationships is dawning in Holland. The founder of the Centre for
Social Innovation, Professor Volberda, states that only one-quarter of innovation comes from technological
innovation, while the rest comes from social innovation. It has been found that if employees are
happier and more satisfied with their work, then the result will be increased productivity and profits.
- Families with children will receive a higher than expected increase in child support benefits from the
Dutch government. Widows and orphans will receive higher stipends from the government as well.
- The first boat running on hydrogen has been launched in Holland. Hydrogen, when combined with
oxygen, yields electricity. The fuel cell has a capacity of 1.2 kilowatts, while the engine runs on 2.4
kilowatts. With 330 litres of hydrogen, the boat can travel 220 kilometres.
On the 77th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 27 June 2006
- Dutch Prime Minister Balkenende reported that his European colleagues asked him about what
is happening in Holland. He said they have noticed that Holland is suddenly quite ahead of other
countries again. He said, ‘We are in a much better position now, and I am proud of what has
been accomplished. There is a new élan [flair].’ He also noted that the opposition parties
are only
upset over insignificant issues.
- Holland is significantly ahead of the rest of Europe in consumer spending, a sign of consumer confidence.
April showed a 2.8 per cent increase in consumer spending across Europe, while in Holland it
was 3.8 per cent. Annual growth in Holland was predicted to be 1.5 per cent. Analysts at the global
banking group ABNAMRO confirm the percentage is considerably above expectations, and they are
revising their projection upward to 2.0 per cent.
- Organic food is becoming more common in Holland, the press reported. Eighty thousand people visited
an ‘Open Day with Organic Farmers’. It was reported that people don’t eat organic food solely
based on principle, but because: ‘It just tastes better!’ In 2005, 467 million Euros was spent on organic
vegetables and fruits, which is a market share of 2.0 per cent. In 2007, the Dutch government would
like to see a market share for organic food of 5.0 per cent. Caterers and restaurants are responsible for
most of the growth thus far. Those who eat organic, eat 33 per cent more fruits and vegetables than the
average consumer.
- In order to meet higher environmental standards, the Cabinet is doubling the budget for air quality and
other environmental issues with an extra 900 million Euros.
- Super de Boer, one of the largest supermarket chains in Holland, is making an effort to use environmentally
friendly products that are produced from sustainable agriculture. Sustainability is now
the core value of the company and part of their slogan. The use of the word ‘sustainability’ here
means managing the use, development, and protection of natural and physical resources in a way, or
at a rate, which enables people and communities to provide for their social, economic, and cultural
well-being, and for their health and safety as well. They explained that this concept is integral to a
company that focuses on selling to the highest levels of society. They went on to say that the time
is ripe for this. ‘The market is globalizing, with all its effects. Developing countries want to sell
products here. Then one cannot close one’s eyes to issues such as child labour, environmental harm,
and bad working conditions for labour.’ In order to reflect this policy, the supermarket chain is selling
coffee, tea, chocolate, bananas, and rice that have achieved Rainforest Alliance certification.
On the 78th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 28 June 2006
- The Dutch Cabinet resigns because of a non-issue with the smallest, weakest coalition partner.
They will most likely continue as a minority Cabinet, consisting of Christian Democrats and
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Liberals. These two parties have gained considerable popularity over the last few months, and
would form a much more stable and coherent cabinet. Queen Beatrix is consulting with all party
leaders. His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi has commented that with this event, one phase of
purification is over. The Invincible Holland Course in Vlodrop has lead to purity, freedom, sovereignty,
and invincibility. Government decisions now will be purer and more enlightened. It is
like when a bud blossoms into a flower, everything becomes more glorified.
- The Minister of Traffic, Mr Peijs, proposes to open a ‘Knowledge Institute for Mobility’ in order to
create better vision and planning for traffic and transport.
- It was reported that according to the Education Council, elementary school students who need more
time learning should have extra school days on the weekends or holidays. Children in this category
can be quickly identified with special tests. Costs for the extra education are modest. If the problem is
recognized in children at a young age and they are given help, then problems with low grades would
be prevented when they are ready for high school. The Council also suggests increasing investments
in education in general, by the government, industry, and student contributions.
On the 79th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 29 June 2006
- Mid-Limburg, which consists of Roermond and the surrounding areas including Vlodrop where the
Invincible Holland Course is being held, is considered to be the country’s best economic region. The
average score is 6, and Mid-Limburg scored 6.8, which is a substantially higher score than South-Limburg.
The rating is based on economic strength and growth potential.
- As of July, all social benefits and allowances rose again. They rose about one per cent higher in comparison
to 1 January 2006. The minimum wage also rose about one per cent.
- The Netherlands is the largest foreign investor of all OECD countries. OECD is an acronym for
Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, which is an international agency
that supports programmes designed to facilitate trade and development. So far this year, Dutch
companies have invested 119.4 billion Euros outside the country, and foreign companies invested
43.3 billion Euros in The Netherlands.
- All elementary schools will receive additional funds, totalling 50 million dollars, for better organization
of childcare.
- In May, Schiphol airport had 4.2 million passengers, a 3 per cent increase over May of 2005. The volume
of cargo increased in May by 6.7 per cent, totalling 121,000 tons.
On the 80th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 30 June 2006
- The Dutch Cabinet has allotted 25 million Euros extra to aid people who are too deep in debt.
- A special Indonesian-themed live-in care complex is being constructed in Almere, for people who
have an Indonesian background. The houses and design will reflect the Indonesian culture. Maharishi
Global Reconstruction is also planning a Peace Colony in the same area. Almere Poort is stimulating
private commissions, because it permits varied building styles.
- The Royal Dutch Shell oil company, Connexxion, the largest public transport bus company in the
Netherlands, and MAN, an engineering works and truck manufacturer, are going to work together to
develop buses that run on hydrogen. In 2010, a large number of these buses are planned to be driving
in Rotterdam.
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- A new study shows there is increased optimism about the economic potential of the well-educated, new
immigrant generation, with the number of young entrepreneurs steadily increasing, mainly outside of
the large cities, especially in the provinces of Flevoland and Utrecht. The study, by the Rabobank, also
notes there is a 13 per cent increase of entrepreneurs of Asian descent over the last three years.
On the 81st day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 1 July 2006
- The Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) notes that for the first time the number of optimists among
consumers is larger than the number of pessimists. This is a milestone, according to economist Michel
Vergeer of CBS. June’s Consumer Confidence report came out to be considerably higher. CBS is surprised
about the upswing.
- The news reports that more women are working part-time now. However, the number of full-time,
working women has declined from 30 per cent to 25 per cent.
- According to studies by the Research Institute ITS, when boys and girls are educated separately, better
educational results are obtained, especially among the girls. It is noted that the development of skills
and abilities in boys and girls are quite different at various age levels. Boys score somewhat better in
a mixed environment, because they are influenced by the diligence of the girls, and then they become
more serious about their studies. Girls, however, definitely perform better in a girls-only environment,
the research found.
- Income from agriculture is rising again. The average income of farmers is 59,000 Euros per year,
which is still modest in comparison to incomes in other areas, but it is enough to cover living expenses
and also have some savings.
- Most Dutch people are not worried about their careers, it was reported. Only one out of five say a
career is very important. Eighty-six per cent of the population say that a private happy life is much
more important than having a good career. The preference is to work only four days a week, and to
stop at 65 years of age. Yet, 75 per cent of the people are happy with their jobs.
- Prices of Dutch industry increased again, 7.2 per cent as compared to May 2005. This is the third year
in a row that prices have risen at least 5 per cent per year.
On the 82nd day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 2 July 2006
- The press reported that the Minister of State, Mr Lubbers, was appointed by Queen Beatrix of the
Netherlands to investigate the organization of a new Cabinet. He is very optimistic and feels that he
can finalize the project within a week. Such a project would ordinarily take months.
- The majority of political and social parties prefer the continuation of the current Cabinet as a minority
Cabinet consisting of the two large political parties, the press reported.
- The press reported that Her Royal Highness Princess Maxima of the Netherlands was asked to take a
seat on the Advisory Commission of the United Nations in the area of finance. In the Year of Microcredit
2005, she interacted with many microentrepreneurs in developing countries and witnessed the
importance of financial empowerment of women and their families, and held meetings with microentrepreneurs
who are now leaders in their villages. A former investment banker, the Crown Princess,
has a degree in economics.
- Chinese tourists are well received in Holland, but often do not speak the language. In order to help
the Chinese tourists, European Insurance NV is offering free telephone interpreter services, the press
reported.
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- The press reported that Minister van der Hoeven has allotted 100 million Euros for additional training
of teachers—especially those who are just beginning their careers.
- After an absence of hundreds of years, the European Wild Cat has been seen once again in Holland,
the press reported.
On the 83rd day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 3 July 2006
- The press reported that the Treasury Department is investigating a new way to check the fiscal duties
of companies via a system called ‘horizontal inspection’, which means that companies have to discuss
their fiscal questions and risks whenever they come up instead of waiting five years. Currently, the
Treasury Department conducts in-depth checks every five years, which are often disruptive and timeconsuming
to the companies.
- The Minister of State, Mr Lubbers, is zooming in on ‘Balkende 3’, which is a continuation of the
present Cabinet with some slight changes, and is organizing Parliamentary support for this Cabinet in
such a way that they can prepare the budget for 2007. This is an important agenda point because the
corporate tax was scheduled to be significantly lowered, and next year the Cabinet planned to give
back 1 billion Euro to the population.
- The press reports that confidence in the new Cabinet, even before its final formation, is 30 per cent,
which is above the confidence rate the previous Cabinet had at its start.
- The lead story of several newspapers was: Transcendental Meditation Programme as subject in new
school in Lelystad. Also, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Leeuwarden, and Maastricht are selected. The press
release was picked up by the two largest wire agencies, and the interest from the media in the subject
is enormous. Sjoerd Vos, former Headmaster of Maharishi Elementary School was widely quoted as
saying: ‘In regular education there is no attention to the development of the child. If the child settles
down (through the practice of Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation Technique), it enhances the
capacity of the child’s mind and intelligence.’
On the 84th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 4 July 2006
- The press reports that car sales are increasing due to the improving economy. During the first half of
2006, sales increased 4.7 per cent more than in the first half of 2005. As of 1 July, there is a discount
of 500 to 1,000 Euros on energy-efficient cars, and the press reports strong growth in this market.
- ABN AMRO bank, Shell Oil Company, TNT, a parcel service and supply chain logistics company,
and Unilever, a consumer products company, have launched the Dutch chapter of Global Contact. This
group of companies is committed to taking a larger responsibility for sustainable development, and
they are taking increased action to eliminate poverty in the world. They subscribe to principles such
as: Universal declaration of human rights, freedom of assembly for employees, collective negotiations,
and other workers’ rights. The group also declares that forced labour is unacceptable.
- The press reports that Belwind, part of the Econcern sustainable energy group, plans to build an offshore
wind farm on Bligh Bank, 46 kilometres from the Belgian port of Oostende. With 66 five-megawatt
wind turbines, the project represents an investment of 800 million Euros.
- The Economic Climate Clock showed a more robust economic climate for the month of June as compared
to May. Economic growth is accelerating at a rate above the long-term average. According to
the Central Bureau of Statistics, all fifteen indicators show an upward trend.
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On the 85th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 5 July 2006
- The press reports that Mr Pieter van Geel, State Secretary for the Environment, has impressed the
European Union by stating that the clean car engine norms in The Netherlands will be met by 2013,
two years ahead of schedule.
- The press reports that the Prime Minister, Jan Peter Balkenende, finalised his new cabinet ‘Balkenende
3’ in record time, about one week, and presented it to Queen Beatrix.
- The Dutch government is focusing on the most promising economic prospects of the nation, and has
made 300 million Euros available from now until 2010 to encourage economic growth. The focus is
more on the knowledge sector, such as universities and institutes, and technological innovation companies.
Regional governments and companies also participate in the funding, the press reports.
On the 86th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 6 July 2006
- The Swiss hotel chain Movenpick plans to open more hotels in Holland because it considers Holland
a hospitable and peaceful country. The chain just opened a large hotel in Amsterdam with 408 rooms,
which is already quite successful.
- The press reports that in the first half of 2006 there were 4.2 per cent fewer bankruptcies compared to
the same time period in 2005.
- The press reports that in the first half of 2006, supermarket revenues increased on the average 3.5 per
cent. The revenues were the highest in June with 5.3 per cent growth.
- The Social Economic Council (SER) recommends a knowledge-driven economy—investing in people’s
education and skills in order to increase productivity and employment rates.
- Food-safety inspectors for hotels, caterers, and supermarkets have changed their tactics from levying controls
and fines for rule-breaking, to offering advice and support. They conclude that this way of dealing
with
non-compliance would lead to better food safety, and fewer supervision and administrative costs.
On the 87th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 7 July 2006
- The press reports that the new ‘Balkenende 3’ Cabinet has promised restraint. Since they are a minority
Cabinet, the Dutch Parliament is more in charge than the previous ‘Balkenende 2’ Cabinet.
- Due to greater demand in the housing industry, the value of a home will increase 5 to 6 per cent this
year.
- The flower auctions’ revenues for the first half of 2006 were 6.3 per cent higher. This 2.3 billion revenue
was higher than predicted.
- The policy that Dutch police departments must meet a quota for fines has now been eliminated, the
press reports.
- The press reports on the recent success of an experiment along highways using ‘road showers’, which
absorb fine materials from exhausts. The waterdamp showers, which were placed on highway noise
walls, were found to prevent toxic gasses from blowing into the environment. The collected water is
then filtered and re-used.
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On the 88th and 89th days of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 8–9 July 2006
The following news appeared in several Dutch newspapers, on radio shows, and television:
Vedic high school education starts the day with meditation. Hein Brik (56), Director of a project to create Vedic high schools, is a replacement teacher in the public school system who sees daily how students are not open towards knowledge. Their attention is directed towards each other and themselves. ‘They say: what do we gain with the theorem of Pythagoras?’ he sighs.

The new high schools will bring fulfilment to the existing level of secondary education, hav o/vw o, through enlivenment of the whole brain, more self-knowledge, and more happiness through meditation. Tentatively the plan is to open branches in four cities—Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Leeuwarden, and Lelystad.

At Maharishi Elementary School De Fontein in Lelystad, which has been in existence for almost twenty years, students learn Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s Transcendental Meditation (TM), a special form of meditation with which every day starts and closes. ‘Apart from the practice of Transcendental Meditation, we are very much a normal elementary school,’ says Director Gitty Slot. Also, the high schools which will be established will offer regular disciplines, and in addition, the practice of Transcendental Meditation, says Hein Brik. About fifty licensed teachers stand ready to begin. ‘It will cost parents approximately 10 to 15 thousand Euros per year, but we are aiming at long term subsidized education,’ Mr. Brik said. The Ministry of Education and Onderwijsinspectie (Education and Inspection) has been informed, but because the schools will begin as private educational institutions, the Ministry of Education and Inspection will be less involved. Yet the schools need to comply with the compulsory education laws, which will be supervised by the community education officials.

On the 90th day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 10 July 2006
- The Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) notes that nowhere in Europe is consumer confidence
rising as quickly as in Holland. The average growth in Europe from June 2005 to June 2006 was
4.6 per cent. The Netherlands, as the absolute winner, had a rating of 21.3 per cent growth.
- The Authority for Food and Goods (VWA) has announced it will publish on the internet the outcome of their tests of residues of herbicides and pesticides on vegetables and fruit at supermarkets, so that consumers can better choose where to purchase their vegetables.

On the 91st day of the ‘Invincible Holland’ assembly, 11 July 2006
- Growth of Collective Labour Agreements (CAO) salaries is increasing. In the second quarter of this year they increased 1.9 per cent as compared to the previous year. Last year the increase was only 0.7 per cent. With 1.9 per cent the salary increase is again above the inflation level, which was 1.3 per cent in June. Energy and Water Board companies did best with a 3.6 per cent increase and the banking sector with a 3.4 per cent increase.
- Dutch streets are much cleaner. More and more parking lots, railway station squares, shopping centers, and beaches are virtually free from litter, reports the Foundation Netherlands Clean, which checks 350 locations which generally have had more than the average amount of litter.
- A wave of on-line job vacancies continues. In June there was again an increase in the Monsterboard Employment Index, where the level is now 43 points higher than at the beginning of the year. The increase was from 4 points to 159, which is again a new record. Marc de Vries, Director of Monsterboard nl states: ‘For the time being there is no reason whatsoever to predict this growth will end.’
- There has been an explosive increase of retail sales. Shops for clothing, consumer electronics, and interior design have seen their revenues growing explosively with 15 per cent to 18 per cent in May. For the whole of retail sales, the increase was 12.3 per cent. This is the first time in this century that revenue growth is more than 10 per cent. ‘We did expect a high number, but this beats everything. We have checked everything twice to see if it was correct,’ says head economist Michiel Vergeer of the Central Bureau of Statistics about the exceptionally large increase.