It is a remarkable milestone: marriage has been open to everyone in the Netherlands for 25 years now. A moment to reflect on what has been achieved. And how this has become simply normal.

In 2001, the Netherlands made history. As the first country worldwide, it opened marriage to same-sex couples. That was not just a rule change – it was important recognition. It said: your love counts equally. Your commitment is just as valuable. For many people, this was a moment of finally feeling fully recognised in society.

A quarter century later, this feels logical and normal. Thousands of couples have embraced this right. Some had been together for years and could finally marry formally. Others grew up with the idea that this was simply possible. The fear and opposition of those days seem far away – although those feelings remain real for some.

This is not a moment for complacency, but for appreciation. It shows that change is possible, step by step. And it reminds us that love is simply love. Whether you marry a man, woman, or non-binary person. After 25 years, that feels obvious – and that is exactly how it should be.