THE HAGUE – Zsolt Szabó, State Secretary for Kingdom Relations (PVV), has refused to disclose details about his financial and business interests, sparking questions about transparency and integrity. This response came following a request from SP party leader Jimmy van Dijk.
Szabó emphasized that the standard procedure for preventing conflicts of interest was thoroughly followed upon the formation of the cabinet. However, he noted that the government has decided to review and seek advice on this procedure, possibly consulting organizations like Transparency International. Lousewies van der Laan, Director of Transparency International, stressed that public officials must disclose financial and business interests to ensure integrity or refrain from accepting cabinet positions.
In the final report from the cabinet’s formateur, Van Zwol, Szabó confirmed having financial and business interests in Dutch and American companies. While some assets reportedly fall below €25,000 in value, Szabó referred to a December 6 letter from the Prime Minister, which outlined steps taken to prevent any appearance of bias.
The State Secretary agreed with the OECD's recommendations that officials should avoid both conflicts of interest and the appearance of such conflicts. He asserted that the government has carefully followed these principles, ensuring that any risks were mitigated during the cabinet's formation.
When asked whether government policies could affect his financial interests, Szabó explained that measures had been taken to prevent such scenarios. These include the establishment of independent foundations to manage assets, with boards consisting of individuals unrelated to the owners or their spouses.
Szabó declined to confirm whether his financial interests could influence cabinet decisions, citing the preventative measures in place. Regarding the importance of transparency in a democracy, Szabó acknowledged the value of disclosing financial and business interests but highlighted the need to balance transparency with privacy, fairness in public service appointments, and the protection of family members.
Despite recognizing the significance of public disclosure for transparency, Szabó refused to share details about his interests, even those valued under €25,000. He argued that the existing framework adequately balances the principles of transparency, privacy, and integrity.
The debate over Szabó’s refusal has reignited discussions about transparency and accountability in public office, with critics urging the government to adopt stricter measures to ensure full disclosure of financial and business interests.