Rik Rutten moderated a national election debate in 2021, bringing together leading political figures to discuss key issues facing the Netherlands. His role as moderator was praised for maintaining a balanced and informative discussion.

Rik Rutten published a book in 2020 that delves into the complexities of European politics, offering readers an in-depth understanding of the EU's inner workings and its impact on member states. The book was praised for its clarity and insightful analysis.

In 2019, Rik Rutten was awarded the prestigious De Tegel award for his investigative reporting on the influence of lobbying in Dutch politics. His work was recognized for its thorough research and impact on public policy discussions.

Rik Rutten led an investigative series on the Dutch housing crisis in 2018, shedding light on the challenges faced by renters and the impact of government policies on housing availability. His work contributed to a national conversation on housing reform and policy changes.

In 2016, Rik Rutten covered the Brexit referendum, providing detailed reports and analysis on the implications of the UK's decision to leave the EU. His coverage was noted for its depth and clarity, helping Dutch readers understand the complex political and economic ramifications of Brexit.

Rik Rutten began his career at NRC in 2014, marking the start of his journey in one of the Netherlands' most prestigious newspapers. His work at NRC has been characterized by a focus on political reporting, where he has developed a reputation for thorough analysis and insightful commentary.