“The Netherlands is: big windows with no curtains, so everyone can look inside. But also: privacy and cosyness (‘gezelligheid’).
—Maxima
At the presentation of a report called ‘Identification with the Netherlands’ by the Netherlands Scientific Council for Government Policy (WRR) on September 23, 2007, princes Máxima stated that “‘The’ Dutch identity does not exist”. (AD, 2007). Máxima specified her statement more extensively during the presentation: “The Netherlands is: big windows with no curtains, so everyone can look inside. But also: privacy and cosyness (‘gezelligheid’). The Netherlands is: one biscuit at tea-time. But also: an enormous hospitality and warmth. The Netherland is: down-to-earth and control. But also: the intense and collective experience of emotions.”
(AD, 2007).