Judith Uitermark

Biography

“The government is not a business"

The government’s systemic reality is not the same as the lived reality of the people, and as a judge, I have seen what can happen when these two worlds collide. Society is becoming more complex, but the government has become increasingly businesslike in its dealings with people. That worries me, because the government is not a business.

Better governance

I want to contribute to restoring trust in the government. Not with honeyed words, but by actually solving problems with good legislation and better governance. I will take a broad look at the problems in our society and work to solve them effectively. As a former judge, I have ample experience and a keen legal eye. Legislation is not always the best solution. There are some problems that are better fixed by people or organisations themselves and it is important to actively encourage them to do so.

In tune with practice

When we make new rules, we have to take a close look at their effects in practice. At the same time, politicians should do more with valuable practical ideas and scientific insights. Criminal justice practice has already sparked countless initiatives to deter offenders of common crime from reoffending, for example.

Doing what it takes

In addition to carefully reviewing all new rules and regulations, I also believe that rules should be as simple as possible and that unnecessary rules should be dropped. Most importantly, the government should stand beside its people, not above them, and do only what is necessary.