A Dispatch from the Netherlands
Amsterdam is what liberal Americans wish America could be.
I was last in Amsterdam when I was 12, over a quarter-century ago. Walking along the canals bordered by narrow townhouses and dodging bicycles, it occurs to me that this city, perhaps more than any other in the world, is what liberal Americans want the United States to be.
Amsterdam embodies a societal model that aligns closely with liberal aspirations for America.
In Amsterdam, strict gun laws have led to significantly lower rates of gun-related incidents. In 2022, the Netherlands recorded fewer than 38 gun-related homicides, a stark contrast to the more than 14,000 recorded in the United States in the same year.
Education plays a critical role in shaping public opinion and policy, and here too, Amsterdam excels. The Dutch education system emphasizes critical thinking and scientific literacy, resulting in a population that broadly accepts the realities of climate change. This educated populace supports robust environmental policies, contributing to the city’s green initiatives.
Amsterdam outshines many American cities in public transit and sustainable transportation. The city’s extensive network of trams, buses, and trains, combined with its bike-friendly infrastructure, reduces reliance on cars and lowers emissions. Bicycles are an integral part of daily life, with dedicated bike paths crisscrossing the city. The push for electric vehicles further underscores Amsterdam’s commitment to sustainability. In the United States, efforts to expand public transit and promote biking often face political and logistical hurdles. Amsterdam demonstrates how prioritizing these modes of transport can create a more sustainable and livable urban environment.
Amsterdam’s sense of community and volunteerism sets it apart. The city boasts high rates of volunteerism, with citizens actively participating in community initiatives and social programs. This community-minded spirit fosters a sense of belonging and mutual support that many American cities strive for but often struggle to achieve. In the liberal vision for the United States, such community engagement and social cohesion are vital components of a healthy society compared to “rugged individualism” and isolationism.
Amsterdam’s healthcare system, which provides universal coverage, stands in stark contrast to the fragmented and often inequitable system in the United States. Access to affordable healthcare is a cornerstone of liberal policy, and Amsterdam’s efficient and inclusive system serves as a compelling argument for similar reforms in America.
Amsterdam’s approach to drug decriminalization and harm reduction offers an alternative to the punitive measures prevalent in the United States. By focusing on public health rather than criminalization, Amsterdam has managed to reduce drug-related harm and improve public safety. This approach aligns with liberal perspectives on drug policy reform, emphasizing compassion over punishment.
There are goings-on behind the scenes, too. For example, the Netherlands is fast becoming a cashless society in part because the government regulates banks and does not allow high swipe and interchange fees like in the US. Small businesses don't suffer from high credit card fees, and consumers get to tap or swipe for everything.
On-street electric vehicle charging is currently available and growing.
It’s important to acknowledge that Amsterdam’s successes are not merely a product of liberal policies but also of its unique cultural and historical context. The Netherlands has a long tradition of pragmatism and consensus-building, which has facilitated the implementation of progressive policies. These factors may not be easily replicable in the United States.
I've heard conservative critics say liberals are trying to turn the US into “some leftist European nation.” They may be correct. Amsterdam, I imagine, is what most people like me think a World-leading society should look like.