Support for Dutch Royals and monarchy stable; More criticism of costs

Both support for the monarchy and the ratings for King Willem-Alexander, Queen Maxima, and Princess Amalia remained stable this year after recent years’ slight increase, according to the annual NOS King’s Day Survey 2026, conducted by Ipsos I&O. Interest in the Royal House decreased, while criticism for what the Royal House costs increased.

Like last year, six out of ten Dutch people (62%) want to retain the monarchy. The group that would rather have a republic decreased slightly, from 22 percent last year to 20 percent this year. Older people remain more in favor of the monarchy (69%) than younger people (52%).

Dutch people’s appreciation for King Willem-Alexander, Queen Máxima, and Princess Amalia remained stable. Máxima again received the highest score of the three at 7.5, followed by Amalia at 7.3, and Willem-Alexander at 6.9. The Dutch are more satisfied with Willem-Alexander and his performance. 53 percent said they were satisfied this year, compared to 47 percent last year.

The survey, conducted among 1,000 Dutch people aged 18 and older, also showed that interest in the Royal House is declining somewhat. 21 percent said they are interested in the Royals’ goings on, compared to 27 percent in 2025. Objections regarding what the Royal House costs have increased significantly. 49 percent consider the Royals too expensive, compared to 34 percent last year.

The Dutch appreciated Queen Máxima and Princess Amalia’s activities with the Ministry of Defense last year. 58 percent appreciate the royal family dedicating themselves to this.

Dutch people are less sure about Queen Maxima’s other work, such as what she does at the United Nations. 10 percent of respondents said they know what she does, compared to 14 percent last year.

The survey was conducted during the Royal couple’s recent working trip to the United States, and their visit to president Donald Trump. 27 percent of Dutch said they approve of the Royals dining and staying overnight at the White House. 33 percent called it a bad decision.