THE HAGUE, Oct. 20 (Xinhua) -- A majority of Dutch citizens reported feelings of powerlessness and frustration with politics ahead of a national election, according to a study published on Monday.
The survey by the Netherlands Institute for Social Research (SCP), a government agency that advises on social and cultural policy, found 59 percent of people expressed disappointment with politics and concerns over the economy.
"People feel they can do little themselves about the negative consequences of domestic and foreign developments," said SCP researcher Josje den Ridder. "In their eyes, the government can tackle these problems, but it doesn't, or it does the wrong thing."
Many of the 2,289 respondents cited the crises in Gaza and Ukraine as sources of pessimism.
There is widespread disappointment with the political process itself, with many believing politicians do not listen and that the large number of parties hinders effective cooperation.
Although public trust in politicians is low, expectations for a new government are high. Key concerns include housing, immigration and cost of living.
The Netherlands is set to hold its second parliamentary election in two years on Oct. 29. ■