On 3 May, the Dutch primary school in London, De Regenboogschool, hosted a special Liberation Peace Lunch for its pupils, veterans, and community members. Through intergenerational dialogue, creative expression, and lessons on remembrance, Dutch children living in the UK reflected on the meaning of freedom, not only in 1945, but also in today’s world. Veterans shared their experiences from conflict zones like Afghanistan and Srebrenica, reminding students that freedom is never guaranteed. The event offered a powerful space to connect past and present, and to pass on Dutch values of freedom and solidarity to the next generation abroad.

Read more: Dutch School in London Marks 80 Years of Freedom with Peace Lunch

On 4 May, the Embassy’s annual National Remembrance Ceremony took place at the Netherlands Field of Honour in Mill Hill, London. This years’ service, attended by Dutch, British and German dignitaries, paid tribute to all civilians and soldiers who have died in wars or peacekeeping missions since 1940. Highlights included moving poetry recited by children from De Regenboogschool, and a tribute to 102-year-old Selma van de Perre, Dutch resistance fighter and Ravensbrück survivor. Ambassador Paul Huijts emphasised that freedom is a responsibility we must continue to protect, particularly in light of today’s global conflicts.

Read more: Commemorating 80 Years of Freedom: The Dutch National Remembrance Ceremony at Mill Hill

On 5 May, the Netherlands celebrated Liberation Day, marking the end of Nazi occupation and the return of peace and democracy. In a statement, Ambassador Paul Huijts expressed heartfelt gratitude to all those, including many from the UK, who helped secure Dutch freedom. He noted the continued relevance of Liberation Day, especially as Europe faces ongoing challenges to peace and democracy. British Ambassador Joanna Roper also reflected on the shared history and enduring friendship between the UK and the Netherlands, forged in WWII and carried forward through NATO, the EU, and strong bilateral ties.

Read more: Marking 80 Years of Freedom: The Netherlands Celebrates Liberation Day

On 8 May,  the UK’s Victory in Europe Day,  the Dutch Embassy hosted a special Liberation Tea at the ambassador’s residence in London. Around 50 guests, including survivors of WWII in the Netherlands and the former Dutch East Indies, came together for an afternoon of remembrance and storytelling. Over scones, tea, and shared memories, Ambassador Paul Huijts spoke of the power of personal testimony and the importance of honouring our past by protecting freedom for the future.