About 7% of smokers quit after the 2024 increase in excise duty. Another 16% attempted to quit, 22% started smoking less, and 14% switched to an alternative, such as a cheaper brand of cigarettes. This is apparent from a RIVM study into the effects of this tax increase.

Adequate preparations by the government and by citizens can help mitigate the consequences of a future pandemic or other disaster. However, a study by the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) has shown that people in the Netherlands are not making these preparations (pandemic preparedness).

According to research by RIVM on the 2023 excise duty increase, the increased excise duty (tax) on tobacco products is having a noticeable impact on smokers' behaviour.

The measures implemented in the Netherlands during the COVID-19 crisis were effective against the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This is the outcome of a study conducted by RIVM.

RIVM advises government authorities to involve ‘key persons’ in formulating policy for current and future pandemics. Results from RIVM research show that these individuals played a key role in ensuring an ongoing focus on social well-being and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic, despite the limitations.

In the long-term approach to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Dutch government is assigning a key role to civil society and private citizens. When asked what their priorities are in that context, the answer was to prevent delays in surgical interventions.

As of Friday 3 December, the recommendation in the Netherlands is to use a self-test in case of mild symptoms, as an alternative to a test by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs).

Compliance with coronavirus measures such as working from home, distancing and testing if you have symptoms decreased in the weeks leading up to the Cabinet’s recent press conference.