Hello everyone,

We want to thank everyone who has signed the petition and shown solidarity in opposition to the planned visit of the Dutch royal family to Kenya. This is more than a call for reconsidering a visit at a time when Kenya is grappling with severe human rights violations under the current leadership of authoritarian William Ruto - this is a statement that what is happening in Kenya cannot be ignored by international bodies, including the Dutch government and royal family.

1. Making a Bold Statement, clearly Expressing Our Discontent and Concerns

Our primary goal is to make it clear that the international community, and specifically the Dutch government and royals, cannot stand idly by while President Ruto’s administration continues to violate human rights and suppress dissent. A visit under such circumstances sends the wrong message—that human rights abuses can be ignored for the sake of diplomacy or economic interests. By voicing our discontent through this petition, we aim to send a powerful message: This does not sit well with us—we will not allow our shared values of justice and human dignity to be overlooked.

2. A Symbolic Gesture and PUBLIC statement from the Dutch Royal Family and/or Government

A visit to Kenya, under the current climate, presents an opportunity for the Dutch royal family or the government to make a bold symbolic gesture—something that acknowledges the gravity of the situation and signals their commitment to standing on the side of justice. Whether through a public statement, a formal condemnation of human rights violations, or even rethinking the visit altogether, this gesture could underscore the importance of human rights and the need for accountability. It would not just be about canceling a visit; it would be about ensuring that the visit reflects values of fairness, human dignity, and justice.

3. Engagement with Civil Society

A third and crucial goal is to foster genuine dialogue and engagement with Kenyan civil society and local communities who are directly impacted by the current regime’s policies. The Dutch government and the royals should not just pass through Kenya as visitors; they must take the time to listen to those who are most affected by these abuses—activists, local human rights organizations, and citizens who are standing up for their rights. This engagement would ensure that their presence in Kenya does not overlook the voices of the very people who need international attention the most. It’s about fostering true solidarity, not just symbolic visits.

We ask for your continued support as we stand firm in demanding accountability and justice. This petition is about more than one visit; it is about standing up for the principles that bind us all, no matter where we are in the world. Please continue to share this petition with your networks, so that our collective voice grows stronger. Every signature counts, and together, we can continue to make a meaningful difference.

Thank you, thank you, thank you for your ongoing support.