The day seems to finally have gone back to normal. Some impressions going through the Dutch media:
It was noted by all the papers and all the tv programmes that the protests seem to have evaporated. Some in the press claim this has to do with monarchy, but I personally think it much more likely that a new government and a new PM -as much I personally dislike it- have had this effect.. Studies show that esp. lower educated people have more confidence int he government than previously.
On RTL it was said that last year a mistake was made by placing this larger group of protesters close to the window of Kneuterdijk palace, blocking the view for Pss Beatrix with protest signs. this year ladies in traditional costumes from Spakenburg were placed on that location.
Last year -by mistake-the police removed the fences for the protesters first, which meant they were the first ones who could run to the balcony. This year they had to wait. There was a small group of republicans protesting along the route btw.
To prevent last year's boo-ing, a military band was placed closer to the palace. In case there had been loud boo's the music could drown out some of it. In the end it was not needed.
Unlike last year the stands along the route were crowded again. Apparently local Orange associations were remembered that you actually needded to reserve seats there, which many people did.
Lot's of praise for the King -who read the speech faultless and with great confidence, not giving the usual parody programmes any amunition. And esp. for the Princess of Orange, who was considered the best dresser of the day. People noted her confidence and calm, comparisons were made to a young Beatrix.
Princess Laurentien wore the Queen's personal jewels, which some considered a sign of support. But IIRC she has done this before. She was widely cheered and it seems that in her conflict with anonymous civil servants the sympathy of the public is firmly with her.
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I would be surprised not to see the approval ratings go up in April. They already stabilized last year but it feels the atmosphere has changed.