020 party
Within four years, 020 has established themselves as the party that fruitfully acts both within the Student Councils and also outside of them. You can think of our Project Major event and booklet series that helped hundreds of students decide which academic and professional field to pursue. But also of the policies––such as blind grading, mid-course evaluation, accessible menstrual products, tutoring, and oat milk in your coffee, among many others––that our representatives have passed in the Councils.
020’s success is thanks to our diverse base of members who work towards empowering students through progressive, pragmatic and transparent methods. 020 has pioneered its approach to student politics, having a research team for our policies, publishing booklets, and organising events. With KVK non-profit status, and official UvA recognition, 020 seeks to revolutionise student politics. This means that every vote cast for an 020 candidate is a vote for our whole organisation to keep growing and enacting the change we need.
Click on any motion below to see the parties explination
The UvA should offer free menstrual products at each campus
Fully agree
020 believes that period poverty can largely affect the student body by having a negative impact on their mental and physical well-being. In order to prevent that, menstrual products should become accessible, especially in emergency situations and financial difficulty.
It is the government’s responsibility to provide mental health support for students. Therefore, the university should not spend extra resources on this
Fully disagree
The university should take responsibility in supporting students' mental health because resources should be made readily available in their environment when in need of mental health aid. The current resources are not sufficient for the student body, leading to dangerous circumstances. 020 believes that all students must have the right to study and learn with mental health guidance. For instance, we would like to advocate for providing more financial support and awareness to student-led initiatives that support mental health such as 'All Ears', but the university must also focus on more systemic changes (Example: More student psychologists)
All board members of study associations should receive equal financial support from the University
Agree
While there are notable size differences between study associations, we think that equal financial support is a great incentive to build helpful and impactful study associations.
The university should stop the prioritisation of students from outside the EU in regard to the university provided student housing.
Disagree
We believe the university should continue prioritizing non-EU students when it comes to housing. In the current housing crisis, international students, especially those from outside the EU face additional barriers in finding accommodation. This leaves them with fewer options and greater risks, as their ability to remain in the Netherlands often depends on securing housing and maintaining their residence permit. Reducing support for this group would not only increase uncertainty but also undermine the university’s commitment to being a welcoming and inclusive institution.
The UvA Leadership should strongly oppose governments’ policy plans to reduce the number of international students
Agree
Following from the previous stance, there are already active initiatives to curb the growth of international students within the university. Partij 020 does not see the need to develop more policies to limit this growth. We believe that international students (and staff) are an asset to the university's prominence and diverse knowledge.
Current UvA House Rules should be amended to ensure that students can fully express themselves politically, culturally and socially
Neutral
While we recognize the importance of ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all, we also believe that the right to protest and express political, cultural, and social opinions should be protected. The events surrounding the Maagdenhuis protests, where the university itself called for police intervention, underscore the tension between the university’s duty to maintain order and the students’ right to engage in activism. The use of police force in such a situation raises important questions about the balance between university authority and the freedom of expression. We believe that the House Rules should protect the right to protest while ensuring that the university maintains a safe, constructive environment. Future amendments should reflect this balance and involve open dialogue with students, ensuring that peaceful protests and expressions of dissent are respected, not suppressed.
The UvA should cut ties with fossil fuel companies like Shell
Fully agree
Especially as UvA's own researchers study the horrible effects of fossil fuels, it remains hypocritical to continue working with companies like Shell. Possible, and implementable alternatives are available, especially to an institution of UvA's size.
The UvA should give more training to the teaching assistants
Agree
020 believes that the UvA should provide more training to teaching assistants (TAs). TAs play a crucial role in the academic experience of students, and proper training is essential to ensure they can effectively support students. More comprehensive training would help TAs better manage their responsibilities, enhance their teaching skills, and ensure they are well-prepared to handle diverse classroom dynamics.
Admission to programs with a limited student capacity should be based on selection procedure rather than random selection through a lottery system
Agree
020 favours a merit based system that accounts for the socio-economic background of an individual and weighs up their achievements and situation against potential shortcomings of a system solely focused on academic achievement such as the GPA. We further believe that a simple lottery will not reach this goal. We believe a more nuanced approach is necessary to both motivate students to achieve high marks as well as level the playing field to allow for a greater diversity of students at the UvA, which will lead to better research output and quality of education. A system that recognises both merit and socio-economic inequalities is crucial to increase equality and diversity while making sure students are motivated in their studies and are certain that their hard work will pay off.
The canteen should be deprivatized.
Agree
The success of student-led initiatives like De Nieuwe Mensa shows that students are fully capable of organizing enjoyable, healthy, and affordable food services. A deprivatized canteen model would prioritize student needs over profit, foster community engagement, and create space for more inclusive and sustainable food choices. It would also allow for greater transparency, flexibility, and alignment with the university’s values.
The University must prioritise active diversity policies and include decolonial perspectives in the curriculum
Agree
020 strives towards more inclusion. Decolonizing the course content is an important part of improving education in the university as it will help remove long standing biases that exist in many courses. Furthermore, it will encourage students to question their own views and consider those that they perhaps have not yet been exposed to. With the current threatening political trend of the Netherlands towards higher education, we believe this is most crucial than ever to be upheld.
The UvA should invest in more accessibility for students with functional limitations, such as guiding lines for people with visual impairment, as well as sensitivity towards these students
Fully agree
020 believes that it is the university's responsibility to invest in more accessibility for all students with functional limitations and sensitivity towards these students because everyone must have a right to study and learn in an environment that acknowledges and supports their diverse needs. Furthermore, students must be able to move freely and safely on campus
There should be mandatory attendance for seminars/tutorials
Fully disagree
Making it mandatory takes away the possibility of students to reallocate their study time according to their needs. For instance, some students have jobs and other commitments to support their studies, making it difficult to attend all seminars and tutorials. The current lack of flexibility in regard to absences puts students' education at risk of delay which affects students' financial and well-being circumstances.
As a way to curb the growth of the university, Dutch language courses should be a mandatory part of all programs
Neutral
While 020 agrees that due to capacity limits, the growth of the university should be managed, we do not agree that making students taking mandatory Dutch language courses is the best method to do so. Forcing unwilling students to do so may interfere with students' priorities and wellbeing. We do agree, however, that Dutch language courses should be made free or at a cheaper price to ensure that international students are more motivated to learn Dutch and increase the chance of cultural integration and having a successful career in the Dutch labor market.
The university should be allowed to limit the number of international students.
Agree
The university already has active policies to limit the number of international students by, for instance, implementing the Numerus Fixus. Limiting the number of international students would help strike a balance between maintaining the internationalization of education and ensuring the quality and accessibility of education for all students.
Programs should have the sole responsibility in deciding whether they teach in Dutch or in English
Agree
020 believes that academic programs should have the primary responsibility in deciding whether to teach in Dutch or English. We trust that individual programs are best equipped to determine the language of instruction based on the academic content, student population, and future prospects of their graduates. However, we also believe that this decision must be made transparently, with input from both students and staff, and with awareness of how it affects accessibility, inclusion, and the international character of the university.
The UvA should strive to incorporate a broader range of ideological perspectives into its curricula.
Neutral
020 advocates for the importance of diversity of opinions. Exposing students to different ideological perspectives allow grounds for mutual understanding, where people may see more common ground than opposites. However, perspectives that incite hate, discrimination, or exclusion should not be included in the curriculum. Therefore, we advocate for a controlled diversity of ideological perspectives: broad and critical, but with clear boundaries. We recognize that the current student body is becoming increasingly polarized, and we believe that thoughtful and respectful exchange of ideas is essential for fostering connection and critical thinking.
The UvA should address problems such as systemic overwork and bad working conditions among its teachers by giving out more permanent contracts.
Agree
020 believes that the UvA should address issues like systemic overwork and poor working conditions among its teachers, including through the provision of more permanent contracts. Permanent contracts offer greater job security, stability, and can help alleviate stress related to short-term employment. This, in turn, may contribute to improved working conditions, reduced turnover, and more consistent quality in teaching.
The UvA should comply with the ethical assessments made by its independent committee on third-party collaborations, including cutting the ties with institutions found to be complicit in human rights violations
Agree
020 believes that the university has a responsibility to uphold ethical standards and to ensure that its collaborations align with its values, particularly when it comes to respecting human rights. By adhering to these ethical assessments, the UvA would demonstrate its commitment to social responsibility and integrity, ensuring that its partnerships do not contribute to harmful practices or support organizations that violate fundamental rights.
The university lacks sufficient readily accessible gender-neutral toilets.
Neutral
020 acknowledges that there is a need for more accessible gender-neutral toilets at the university. While we recognize the importance of providing inclusive facilities for all students, we understand that there are logistical and budgetary considerations when making changes to campus infrastructure. It is important for the university to continue to assess and improve its facilities in order to accommodate the diverse needs of the student body.
The executive board of the university should be elected through an open election by the students and worker’s body
Disagree
While we recognize the importance of student and staff involvement in university decision-making, we disagree an election for the UvA's executive board should be elected by the students
and workers' body. Most students and workers may not have enough detailed information about the candidates' qualifications or the responsibilities of the executive board. Instead, we advocate for a more focused approach where the student and worker councils are actively involved in the selection process, providing representation and input while ensuring that the candidates are chosen based on their expertise and qualifications. This would ensure a more informed, efficient, and effective selection process.
and workers' body. Most students and workers may not have enough detailed information about the candidates' qualifications or the responsibilities of the executive board. Instead, we advocate for a more focused approach where the student and worker councils are actively involved in the selection process, providing representation and input while ensuring that the candidates are chosen based on their expertise and qualifications. This would ensure a more informed, efficient, and effective selection process.
All lectures should be available online for everyone
Fully agree
020 believes that lectures should be made available online as it allows for flexibility for students with disabilities, jobs, care duties and other commitments.
The UvA should place greater emphasis on protecting and promoting academic freedom
Agree
020 believes that students should have the right and responsibility to develop independent thoughts and opinions. emphasizing and protecting academic freedom allows students to develop independent ways of thinking and we believe that this is the basis of democratic societies.
More investment is needed in interdisciplinary education (providing students with more than just one perspective on a particular subject, such as honours, PPLE or IIS programs)
Fully agree
An interdisciplinary perspective will improve quality of education by exposure to a variety of perspectives and method. Moreover, this will enhance students' overall chances for developing a successful and fruitful career.
The UvA should take a firm stance against the government’s cuts in higher education
Fully agree
020 party believes that the budget cuts in higher education threaten academic freedom and quality of education. The recent scrapping of the Psychology English Programme shows a lack of firm stance among the UvA Board, and we fear how this might impact other programs. We therefore call the UvA Board to be firmer in dealing with such cuts, with a strong emphasis on quality of education.
The Binding Study Advice (BSA) should be abolished
Fully disagree
020 party believes that BSA is necessary to gain the university's permanence. However, we stress that there should be more flexibility with the study advice as different students have different needs and lives which might directly affect their personal advice.
Calling the police should be an appropriate response to deal with student protests and demonstrations at the university
Fully disagree
We firmly believe that students have the right to Organize and protest as these constitute an important part of a democratic society. Furthermore, the university should be a place where exchanges of different opinions take place. While we hear that some students may get disturbed by protests, we believe that calling the police on students only fuel an endless cycle of violence and restriction of freedom of expression. Universities must instead involve in dialogue and understanding with student protesters, and be transparent about what took place during the protests instead of purely framing protests as "unsafe and violent".
The Numerus Fixus (a limitation in the number of students admitted) should be used to stop the growth of the university
Agree
020 agrees that the Numerus Fixus can be a necessary tool to manage the growth of the university, but it must be applied thoughtfully and transparently. When used correctly, it helps ensure that the university can maintain academic excellence by admitting students based on strong credentials, while not exceeding its capacity in terms of staff, facilities, and resources.. However, we also stress that the use of Numerus Fixus should not be a substitute for broader investment in higher education. The current lack of resources is a systemic issue, and limiting student numbers should not come at the cost of accessibility or diversity. 020 believes that the university must advocate for more structural funding to support both quality and inclusion.
The UvA should involve students in long term plans for study spaces and teaching facilities according to the expected changes in student population
Agree
020 believes that the UvA should involve students in long-term planning for study spaces and teaching facilities, especially in response to expected changes in the student population. Students are the primary users of these facilities, and their input is crucial to ensure that the university meets their needs and provides an effective learning environment. Involving students in this process will help ensure that facilities are designed with their needs in mind, creating spaces that are both functional and conducive to learning. Additionally, involving students in planning will promote transparency and a sense of ownership over the spaces they use.
Peaceful occupations should be considered as a legitimate means of protest at the university
Agree
020 believes that peaceful occupations can be a legitimate means of protest at the university, provided that they respect the rights and safety of others. Occupations, when done peacefully and respectfully, allow students to express their concerns and contribute to important dialogues on issues such as education, policies, and the university’s direction. However, it is essential that such actions do not interfere with the right of others to access education or disrupt the functioning of the university. We advocate for an environment where students are encouraged to engage in peaceful protest and activism while maintaining the principles of mutual respect and dialogue.
The UvA should cut ties with Israeli institutions
Agree
020 agrees that the UvA should carefully assess its ties with Israeli institutions, particularly those that may be complicit in human rights violations. The university has a responsibility to ensure that its collaborations align with ethical standards and respect for human rights. While academic freedom and international cooperation are important, it is crucial for the university to uphold its values of social responsibility and integrity. If any institution is found to be directly involved in human rights violations, it would be appropriate for the UvA to reconsider or sever its ties. This approach would demonstrate the university's commitment to ethical practices and support for human rights, while also encouraging constructive dialogue and accountability.
All food options should be plant based by default
Disagree
020 believes that offering plant-based food options by default is a step toward more sustainable and inclusive food choices at the university. Plant-based diets are generally better for the environment and health, and making them the default option can help promote these benefits to the student body. However, we also recognize that dietary preferences and needs vary, and it’s important to provide a variety of food options to accommodate everyone.
Student & Workers Councils should have the final say in policy decisions
Agree
020 agrees that Student and Workers Councils should have a significant role in policy decisions, particularly on issues that directly impact students and staff. These councils represent the core of the university’s community, and their input is essential for ensuring that policies reflect the needs and interests of students and workers. While the final decision may still rest with the university administration, the councils should be given a meaningful voice to ensure decisions are democratic, transparent, and well-informed.
Students wishing to take honours courses should be able to do so based on their motivation, regardless of their grades
Neutral
Although motivation must also be a deciding factor, we believe it may be difficult to measure motivation. We believe that there should be a combination of both grades and motivation for following honours courses. Having a slightly flexible minimum grade for entry into the honours programme would allow for the university to keep the quality of education while also allowing for motivation students to participate in the programme.