Toeslagenaffaire

"Toeslagenaffaire" or the Dutch childcare benefits scandal is a dark chapter in the country's recent history, characterized by government actions that turned innocent lives upside down. This artwork presents a critical view of how the government pursued and victimized its own citizens, only realizing the enormity of its mistakes when lives had already been shattered due to the unjust actions of those in power. The recognition of this injustice came tragically late, long after the damage had been inflicted, leaving scars that may never fully heal. The artwork employs a somewhat satirical approach, aligning the subject matter with the aesthetics of a brand often associated with poor service and perpetual lateness, drawing a pointed parallel between the government's handling of the crisis and the brand's notorious reputation.

Even more disheartening is the painfully sluggish and still-ongoing compensation process, which stands as a glaring testament to the government's failure to rectify the situation promptly. This extended struggle for justice is an absolute disgrace that should not be dismissed or trivialized. I felt the need to bring attention to the issue, particularly because Rotterdam has a disproportionately high number of people affected by this scandal. 

The artwork serves as a stark commentary on the urgency of addressing a grave injustice, a reminder that the repercussions of the Toeslagenaffaire continue to be felt, and a call for a more just and compassionate society where the mistakes of the past are not repeated.