Towards a less voluntary vaccination policy in the Netherlands? Findings from an expert interview study

•During COVID-19, the Netherlands utilised a less voluntary vaccination approach than traditionally.•Experts argue that some epidemiological circumstances necessitate a less voluntary vaccination policy.•Improving more voluntary vaccination interventions is preferred over using pressure or coercion.•Legislation for less voluntary policies should be flexible and developed before crises.•A less voluntary vaccination policy should always be context-specific, proportionate and subsidiary.