L.t.r.: Arjen Droog, Nelleke IJssennagger-van der Pluijm, Hans-Paul van der Snee
A three-part series for former mayor Sybrand Buma: the conversation about Fryslân continues
The farewell was a valuable moment to reflect on a conversation that had recurred regularly in recent years, and in which research, governance and personal commitment had become increasingly intertwined: how do we keep Fryslân strong and liveable for the future?
Fries Geluk (Frisian happiness) as a starting point
A key moment in that discussion was the publication of Fries Geluk staat onder druk ('Frisian Happiness Under Pressure'), made by Planbureau Fryslân. The research made a profound impression on Buma and prompted him to reflect on the future of the province. What happens when an ageing population, population decline and economic changes place ever-greater pressure on the very things that make Fryslân so strong? And what choices are needed to preserve that strength in the future?
These questions prompted Buma to write his own pamphlet, Fries Geluk - Keuzes foar de takomst fan Fryslân ('Frisian Happiness: Choices for the Future of Fryslân'). In it, Buma writes about the need to re-examine the traditional economic model, strengthen links with the rest of the Netherlands and, above all, work together on the future of Fryslân.
What do we do with that conversation now?
When it became clear that Buma would be leaving Leeuwarden to take up his new post as Vice-President of the Council of State, a new question arose for Nelleke IJssennagger-van der Pluijm (Director of the Fryske Akademy) and Arjen Droog (Director of Plannureau Fryslân): what do we do with the discussion that he helped to initiate? Hans-Paul van der Snee (Director-Manager of the Economic Board of Fryslân) agreed.
The answer was not a new research report but something more personal: three essays on Fryslân. Each from its own perspective, written in a personal capacity, drawing on the authors’ own experiences, observations and questions. Together, they form Ver Ander.
Buma was the first to receive a copy
During his farewell, Sybrand Buma was presented with the first copy of Ver Ander. With this collection, the three authors want one thing above all: to ensure the conversation does not end with the departure of a director. After all, the questions Buma has raised over the past few years remain relevant. What do we want to preserve? Where do we need to change? And what choices does the future of Fryslân demand of us? The three essays from Ver Ander are now available for everyone to read.
