It is a special milestone: marriage is now open for everyone in the Netherlands. A moment to look back at achievements. And how this became simply normal.

In 2001, the Netherlands made history. It was the first country worldwide. It opened marriage for homosexual and lesbian couples. That was not just a rule change. It was important recognition. It said: your love counts equally. Your commitment is just as valuable. For many people this was special. They finally felt fully recognised in society.

A quarter century later this feels logical and normal. Thousands of couples embraced this right. Some had been together for years. They could finally marry formally. Others grew up with this idea. They knew it was possible. The fear and opposition from then seem far away. Though some people still feel those feelings today.

This is not a moment for self-satisfaction. It is a moment for appreciation. It shows that change is possible. Step by step. And it reminds us something important. Love is simply love. Whether you marry a man, woman, or non-binary person. After 25 years this feels obvious. And that is exactly how it should be.